Forgiveness is Hard

Recently I was involved in a minor conflict at work. Harsh words were spoken. (by my coworker) Feeling were hurt & tears were shed. (Mine) Although my coworker apologized soon after the incident, I questioned his sincerity.  I felt he was in the wrong & I was innocent. I decided to leave work a little early to help the situation & also to escape any further encounters.  Driving home, I knew in my heart as a Christian I must forgive him.  Even a small situation like this requires forgiveness.  Angry words can’t be taken back once spoken. “No man can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil full of deadly poison.” (James 3:8)
We should realize people will get angry at us or treat us unfairly. However, Jesus still wants us to forgive them. “But when you are praying, first forgive anyone you are holding a grudge against, so that your Father in heaven will forgive your sins too.” (Mark 11:25)
Forgiveness is not always easy. We must try to maintain an attitude of forgiving. I am reminded of Christ’s great sacrifice on the cross for our sins. Only by His mercy & grace am I forgiven.
Forgiveness should start by praying for the one that has hurt you. “But I say love your enemies! Pray for those who curse you, do good to those that hate you. ” (Matthew 5:44) Holding on to grudges is dangerous. It can grow bitterness in your heart.  I realize some people & situations  are simply easier to forgive than others.  Giant wrongs done to us might seem impossible to fix.  Trust Jesus with that. He is able.  He knows all your hurts, & concerns.
Let me encourage you today to ask Jesus  to help you forgive those people who have hurt you & seem impossible to forgive them in your own strength. Only through Christ can true forgiveness come. “And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another even, as God in Christ forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:32) By Deborah King