Forgive

Dear Ones: Forgive! Mr. Webster’s 1828 dictionary defines the act of forgiveness this way: To pardon; to remit, as an offense or debt; to overlook an offense, and treat the offender as not guilty. Oh, how wonderful our God is to give us His ability to forgive others as He forgives our sins through the work of the Cross. However, forgiveness is not something the unrenewed mind wants to do when we have been offended or unjustly treated.

In this portion of Luke’s gospel, he records a portion of the Lord’s Sermon on the Mount teachings. The first part of this verse, Luke 6:37a, says, “Judge not, and you shall not be judged. Condemn not, and you shall not be condemned.” The Lord reveals that every person, by exercising their freewill has control over their thoughts, will, and emotions. The act to forgive, or not to judge or condemn is a freewill choice. When we choose to allow the fruit of self-control to be activated in our minds, then there are good consequences that we reap. When we go to the Lord in sincere repentance, we want our sins to be forgiven, hence, we are obligated to forgive others, too.

In these confused times there is a wokeness agenda that encourages people to be offended by anything they don’t understand or like. These offended sensibilities are used as an excuse to demonize and ridicule others who do not agree with them. However, the truth of the Word still prevails. The ones who won’t forgive cannot receive forgiveness for their failures.

Choose to forgive those who have treated you badly or with disrespect. This is not easy, but it is the wise reaction to the abuse others try to dump on you. Forgiveness is a willful act and choice to follow the teachings of Christ. Remember, blessings abound to those who obey His words of instructions. Have an overcoming day. I bless you in Jesus’ name.