Forgiveness

Jesus said, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing." Luke 23:34

     Throughout life, we are going to be faced with the same decision over and over again: To forgive or not to forgive. Our culture teaches us not to. In fact, they teach us to take revenge. It's easy to seek revenge . . . to give them what they deserve. We want them to know what it felt like. "To give them a taste of their own medicine." But Jesus didn't seek revenge.
     Even if we decide not to take revenge we still have the choice of forgiving or not. It can be hard. I mean, what if someone hurt you? Or what if they did something that everyone else says is unforgivable? What if you don't want to forgive? Jesus forgave anyways.
     Forgiveness is not something that comes from our own power. We are sinful beings. Forgiveness comes from Jesus's power. Only through Him can we truly have the power to give this freeing gift.
     Forgiveness is a gift from God. Every good thing is a gift from Him. If you choose not to forgive, then you are the one who is affected the most. You are caught up in the never-ending battle of grudges and hatred. You are stuck in the constant cycle of revenge.
      But, like I said before, there is a way out. Forgiveness. All you have to do is forgive. You don't have to say that what the person did is okay. You just forgive. You don't have to become best friends with them. Just forgive. It is possible. It can happen. It does free you. It is freedom found in Christ.
       If you are having trouble forgiving, go to Him. Ask Him for the ability. Just remember, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Philippians 4:13