The Power of Forgiveness
Introduction:
Good morning, Church!
One of the most challenging but powerful acts a Christian is called to do is forgiveness. It’s not always easy. Forgiveness doesn’t come naturally to the human heart. When we are hurt, our first instinct is to protect, defend, or even get revenge. But Jesus calls us to a different path—a path of mercy, grace, and healing.
Let’s look at what the Bible teaches us about the power of forgiveness—and how it can free not just the person who wronged us, but also our own hearts.
1. Forgiveness Is a Command, Not a Suggestion
In Matthew 6:14-15, Jesus speaks very clearly: if we want to be forgiven by God, we must forgive others. That’s a strong and serious statement.
Jesus didn’t say, “Forgive when you feel like it,” or “Forgive when the person apologizes.” He said we must forgive. Why? Because forgiveness is central to the gospel. It’s the very reason Jesus went to the cross—for our sins to be forgiven.
2. Forgiveness Sets You Free
Holding onto anger, bitterness, and resentment is like drinking poison and hoping the other person suffers. It eats you from the inside out. But when you choose to forgive, you are not saying what they did was okay—you are saying you are letting go for the sake of your peace and relationship with God.
Ephesians 4:31-32 says, “Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger… Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”
3. Forgiveness Mirrors God’s Character
Every time we forgive, we reflect the heart of God. In Luke 23:34, as Jesus hung on the cross, He prayed, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” Imagine that—He forgave the very people who nailed Him to the cross.
When we forgive others, especially when they don’t deserve it, we are showing the world what God is like—full of grace, mercy, and love.
4. Forgiveness Restores Relationships
Forgiveness is the key to healing broken relationships—whether it’s in families, marriages, friendships, or even in the church.
Colossians 3:13 says, “Bear with each other and forgive one another… Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”
Forgiveness doesn’t mean everything goes back to normal immediately. Sometimes trust takes time to rebuild. But forgiveness is the first step toward restoration.
5. Forgiveness Is a Process, But It Starts With a Decision
Sometimes we expect forgiveness to be a feeling. But it starts with a choice. You may still feel pain. You may still remember the wrong. But when you decide to forgive, God gives you the strength to walk it out.
Forgiveness is not pretending the hurt didn’t happen. It’s choosing not to hold it against the person any longer—and giving it to God.
Conclusion:
Church, we have been forgiven much. Every sin, every mistake, every failure—God has wiped it clean through the blood of Jesus. How then can we withhold forgiveness from others?
Is there someone in your life today that you need to forgive? A parent, a friend, a spouse, maybe even yourself?
Let today be the day you release that burden and walk in the freedom and peace that comes from forgiveness.
Let us pray:
“Lord, thank You for forgiving us when we didn’t deserve it. Help us to forgive others the way You have forgiven us. Heal our hearts, restore our relationships, and make us more like You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”
