Forgiveness. It is a tough subject for some people to address. Am I right? I think so. Matthew West is a contemporary Christian artist who wrote a powerful song called "Forgiveness." It is one of my favorite songs written and sung by him. Below are some excerpts of the lyrics:
"It's the hardest thing to give away And the last thing on your mind today It always goes to those who don't deserve It's the opposite of how you feel When they pain they caused is just too real Takes everything you have to say the word
Forgiveness, forgiveness
It flies in the face of all your pride It moves away the mad inside It's always anger's own worst enemy Even when the jury and the judge Say you've got a right to hold a grudge It's the whisper in your ear saying set it free
Forgiveness, forgiveness
Show me how to love the unlovable
Show me how to reach the unreachable
Help me now to do the impossible
Forgiveness, forgiveness
Help me now to do the impossible
Forgiveness"
What a powerful song, indeed. Forgiveness confronts your pride and it is anger's own worst enemy. You see, having unforgiveness in your heart is poison to your spiritual and emotional well being. Unforgiveness is both contagious and progressive eating away at your mind, and destroying relationships. If unforgiveness is ignored and not dealt with, your attitude will produce evil dialogue filled with hatred and bitterness. I know it is difficult and downright painful when someone intentionally or unintentionally hurts you, but you must deal with unforgiveness allowing the Lord to help you heal. Do not let pride get in the way of your healing. If we are totally honest, at times, we are inclined to limit or regulate forgiveness we extend to others. We should not let this happen.
The apostle Peter asked the Lord, "How oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times?" Jesus answered, "I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven" (Matt 18:22). In other words, Jesus is telling Peter that your forgiveness to someone who intentionally or unintentionally hurt you should not and cannot be limited by a number. Furthermore, it cannot be limited by time (Luke 17:4). If God has shown you mercy and grace, and forgiveness, then you must demonstrate the same compassionate attitude toward the one who hurt you, intentionally or unintentionally.
So, be free. Forgive and let it go. Move on toward your healing. Forgive ... in Jesus name. He is willing to heal you from that hurt, if you allow Him.
"It'll clear the bitterness away
It can even set a prisoner free
There is no end to what its power can do
So let it go and be amazed by what you see through eyes of grace
The prisoner that is really frees is you.
Forgiveness"
Thanks for reading. God bless.
Pastor Charles Gonzales