As adolescents become adults, its easy to become jaded, scarred by hurtful individuals who tear others down. In additional, certain personalities do not mesh, resulting in irritation as well as uncomfortable moments. Throw in those hungry for control or power and you will find hearts hesitant to forgive.
For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, Matthew 6:14.
At the conclusion of the Lord’s Prayer, also known as the Our Father, Jesus introduces the reciprocal aspect of forgiveness. According to the two verses that follow, forgiveness is not received unless it is first extended to others. Similar to the Sowing Principle, you reap what you sow, forgiveness is conditional based upon the degree in which you forgive and forget the transgressions of others.
But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins, Matthew 6:15.
This perspective of forgiveness makes it one of the greatest virtues. However, a lack of forgiveness can make it one of the most dangerous, resulting in eternal damnation. Coping and dealing with personalities that rub you the wrong way can be excruciating, requiring extra grace to those annoying souls you encounter. Yet, as the apostle Paul states in Colossians 3:12-14, the key to forgiveness is loving others as Christ loved us. Therefore, ask God for a new heart, willing to forgive, forget and treat others as you want to be treated.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 