If you forgive those who sin against you, your heavenly Father will forgive you.
But if you refuse to forgive others, your Father will not forgive your sins.Matthew 6:14-15 {NLT}
That Scripture right there is pretty black and white in my book. Forgive, or you won’t be forgiven. That’s the bottom line. We’ve been commanded to forgive.
And if we don’t? Every.single.sin. we commit won’t be forgiven either. Woah!
That doesn’t mean only the big sins – remember, a sin is a sin – God doesn’t hold one more accountable than another.
Murder? In our book, big sin.
Gossip? In our book, small sin.
In God’s book? Equal.
I saw a great quote on Pinterest that reads, “Don’t judge someone just because they sin differently than you.” <– tweet this
It’s important to note, not only are there Biblical reasons why we should forgive, there are significant health benefits as well. An online article from Mayo Clinic had this to say:
Forgiveness brings a kind of peace that helps us go on with life. Letting go of grudges and bitterness can make way for compassion, kindness and peace. Forgiveness can lead to:
- Healthier relationships
- Greater spiritual and psychological well-being
- Less anxiety, stress and hostility
- Lower blood pressure
- Fewer symptoms of depression
- Lower risk of alcohol and substance abuse
Looks to me like we have two very important reasons on why we need to forgive … because God has commanded us to, and because we can lead healthier – physically and spiritually – lives if we do.
Lastly, unforgiveness is like having shackles and chains around our emotions and life. Unforgiveness controls us, while forgiveness enables us to create our own life path. <– tweet this
Forgiveness brings freedom. Freedom from what binds us. Freedom to let go. Freedom to move on. And freedom to live fully and abundantly, the way God intended.
The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy.
I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.
John 10:10 {ESV}
Ultimately, forgiveness is a choice. A choice to live bound. Or a choice to live free.
The question remains, which do we want and which will we choose?
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Loving that quote “Don’t judge someone just because they sin differently than you” ! For me judging and forgiveness seem to be closely related – I often think that just because I don’t do x that I’m ok. Why do I think I should be forgiven for my sins, while others shouldn’t be? You are right – it is black and white! A direct command – not optional! Sin is sin, no matter who commits it – and if I expect to be forgiven, then I need to practice forgiving others. Pretty simple – yet very hard! Great post – something to be pondering today!
Wow…I need to spend some time on this! Great post!
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