Forgiveness, a concept that is so simple, yet complex is one of the cornerstones of what the bible and God stands for. We see that God holds many virtues and one of them is forgiveness, he gives individuals and the people a chance repeatedly although they do things that could be displeasing in his eyes. In Luke 17:14, Jesus says “And if he trespasses against thee seven times in a day, and seven times in a day turn again to thee, saying, I repent; thou shalt forgive him.” This shows us that as human beings we should forgive a person for doing wrong against us even if it is seven times a day. If we, as created beings, are called to such forgiveness, how much more does the Creator, God, bear and forgive our shortcomings. We cannot reach the amount of tolerance God has. He has shown sympathy to Israel for doing things that was displeasing, he has given them countless opportunities without ever bringing down his anger upon them.
We can sometimes find ourselves in this problem of forgiveness towards individuals in our daily lives. If someone does wrong with us and we are not at fault, it is up to us to try and talk things out without harshly reacting to the situation. James 1:19-20 says “Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath. For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God.” Try to put yourselves in the other person’s shoes before going against them. They have their own personal lives and difficulties to deal with which could have been the reason they responded in that way. Before coming to harsh decisions, try to speak it out with the person, if they are not receptive, then do not let it get the better of you. Ask the people around you that you trust for advice before trying to fix things for the second time, this could lead to a more fruitful conversation with better outcomes and understanding.
Now why are we doing this? Are we obligated to do so? I believe that the best relationships are ones which do not have any resentment. Romans 12:10 says “Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honor preferring one another.” It is not easy to hate but hard to love. Keeping good relations always has positive outcomes and a better life. God just wants what is best for the church, although one can have a different opinion, it is our duty to love one and other, it is one of the most beautiful characters that us humans possess. Forgiveness could bring about so many beautiful things in the church and individual relationships. It brings about love, peace, trust, and maturity. The more peaceful we are with each other, the easier it makes it for us to work with each other to spread the beautiful word of God.
- A Follower of Christ