Daily Delight
I have been married to my sweet husband, Jordan, for almost three years. I am constantly amazed at what God has taught me through marriage.
I’ll be the first to tell you that I’m not a perfect wife. I fall short. I mess up (pretty often). But over and over, Jordan chooses to forgive me. Jordan’s forgiveness towards me is an overflow of the amazing, life-changing forgiveness of God -- the forgiveness that God in turn calls each of us to extend.
Each of us has been hurt deeply in some way -- perhaps by insults, betrayal, gossip, violence. Unfortunately, sometimes this hurt comes directly from fellow Christians. What is our response?
In Colossians 3, Paul reminds us that we are to have compassionate hearts. We are to be kind, humble, and meek. We are to have patience with others. We are to forgive others because God first forgave us.
Forgiveness is not effortless -- in fact, it can often feel impossible. It is easier to hold a grudge or take offense than it is to let go of hurt. But unforgiveness breeds bitterness, and bitterness breeds hate. And hate is the opposite of love, which is fundamental to the character of God.
“Anyone who does not love does not know God, because God is love.” -1 John 4:8 (ESV)
Friends, we must forgive, because we are called to love. Today, pray sincerely for those who have hurt you. Ask God to show you if you’re holding any unforgiveness or offense in your heart, and ask Him to replace it with forgiveness and with His love.
Desire to forgive others, just as God first forgave us.
About the Author
Kirsten Fernandes
