Forgiving Friends

Don’t you just love those old commercials that played the song, “I sorry. So Sorry,” and showed pictures of cute little puppies staring at you. How could you stay mad at them and not forgive whatever mess they made with those big puppy eyes melting your heart.

If only it was that easy; forgiveness that is. It would definitely make things so much easier, but the reality is that forgiveness is often very difficult. Why is that?

I recently read a book that explained how we not only need to forgive the offence but the effects that it may cause in the future. That’s why forgiveness is a continual process, some of the painful consequences and heart ache may come months or even years later.

As I was thinking about this the words of Jesus made even more sense to me, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?” Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy times seven.”

Most likely the many other times are for the memories of the pain that was caused, the words that were said or the loneliness from a lost relationship. They may even be continuing offenses from a friend who doesn’t see their actions as hurtful.

While praying about this I wrote in my journal 7X70, then thought about how many times God continues to forgive me. Beside each prayer request that required me to offer forgiveness I would write 7X70 as a reminder that the Lord is calling us to be forgiving friends regardless of how painful or how many times we need to offer forgiveness. It’s a choice to follow His commandment and again the words of Jesus rang in my ears, “If you love me, you will obey me.”

For those offenses that I needed a bit more help to forgive I would write on the side of the prayer request , “Broken – but still chosen and worth forgiveness,” as a reminder that the offenders are still loved by God and in my life with purpose.

Are there relationships in your life that need forgiveness? Are you willing to trust God and obey? The Lord would not have commanded us to do it if it wasn’t possible. But through Him, all things are possible. Especially forgiveness.

Be Intentional about being a forgiving friend.

Praises & Prayers

Father, than you for the forgiveness that You freely gave and continue to give to me. Help me to obey out of a heart of love for You and forgive others, no matter how many times it requires. Thank you for Your grace. In Jesus’ name, amen

Messages from His Word

Matthew 6:14-15

For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.  But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.