And thank goodness God’s heart is pure and perfect. God forgives me. He forgives you. The cross conveys to us the ultimate act of forgiveness, that Christ would die for you, for me, so that we may be completely forgiven and made wholly new in Him.
I don’t know about you, but I am a BIG people pleaser. You know how people claim that you can’t be everyone’s cup of tea? While I know this to be true, it hasn’t stopped me from trying to be ALL the flavors of tea.
Have you written someone off because they’ve hurt you or didn’t show up in ways you needed or expected?
Have you ever been afraid to get close to someone because you can appreciate that inevitably the day will come when YOUR humanness shows up in big ways and you will completely fail this person?
(photo cred: Roberto Nickson on Unsplash)
God calls us (expects us) to have a heart ready to freely give forgiveness. Why? Because that’s exactly what we needed from Him. It’s exactly what He gave us in His Son, Jesus.
In order to CHOOSE forgiveness (because making the choice is the first step) we must first receive God’s forgiveness. Then, with His Spirit, we can begin the process of forgiveness in our relationships here on Earth.
“You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.”
Genesis 50:20
Joseph is speaking forgiveness to his brothers who betrayed him. He is welcoming them, taking care of them, loving them because he made the choice to forgive. He was able to see how God used his circumstances to save a nation through His provision.
Where do you need to offer forgiveness in your life? Rely on the Holy Spirit to give you the power to claim forgiveness in your heart and in turn share that with others.
Ashley
“This is the day the Lord hath made, let us rejoice and be glad in it.”
Come To the Table Ministry 