And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors... for if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.

Matthew 6:12, 14-15 (NKJV)

 

Jesus prioritises forgiveness and forgiving.

When we refuse to forgive, we are overstepping our place and boundaries as God's children. Because God has already forgiven and forgotten everyone's sin, it is not right for us to seek revenge or hold grudges against those who have betrayed or hurt us.

Many of us find it difficult to forgive. We would rather feed ourselves to remain hurt and angry than learn to move on. The feeling of not forgiving is not a good one. It is toxic and impedes our relationship with God. However, we must recognise that forgiveness is a command rather than a choice. It is something we are called to do. Instead of holding someone's sin against them, we are to forgive their debt to us and set them free from our judgement.

If we can believe God forgives our sins, we can trust Him to help us forgive others in the same way He forgives us. In the prayer Jesus taught us, we should say, "Forgive our debts as we forgive our debtors." The word "as" sets the tone for how we relate with God and others. Since God has freely forgiven the enormous debt of our sin, so we must learn to forgive in response to God's unfailing love and grace.

If you can't forgive, pray for grace and strength.

Instead of feeling guilty and condemned, learn to find rest, peace, and freedom for yourself. Remember that there is no greater way to emulate Jesus than to freely forgive without conditions or expectations.

What is God saying to me here and what must I do?