Forgive One Another

Forgiveness is at the core of the Gospel. It is why Jesus laid aside His glory and came to earth, so we can be forgiven, so our slate can be washed clean. And because forgiveness is so important, the Lord calls us to forgive others. Think of the Lord’s prayer, Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. God is serious about forgiveness. In order to receive forgiveness from the Lord, we must forgive others. He asks us to show others what His love looks like. II Corinthians 2 also teaches us that when we refuse to forgive, the enemy of our souls can take advantage of us. It is very important that we forgive one another from the heart.

Ephesians 4:32-5:2
Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.
Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.

Romans 12:18-20
If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” To the contrary, “if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing, you will heap burning coals on his head.”