Forgiveness

God has done something amazing.  He has forgiven us for not doing what is pleasing to him.  Not only has he forgiven us, but he has given us the ability to forgive each other.  Nobody is perfect and people make mistakes. 

Mark 11:25 (NIV) And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.”

Sometimes people will continuely make mistakes, but God still calls us to forgive them if they say they are sorry.

Matthew 18:21-22 (NIV)²¹ Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?”  Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.

Even if they are not sorry we still need to forgive them.  Forgiveness is not just for the other person, but it is for ourselves as well.  When you don't forgive someone and hold on to their mistakes and wrong doing, anger and bitterness will fester and turn your heart to evil.  Let it go!  Be kind even if you think they don't deserve it because God first forgave you even when you didn't deserve it.

Ephesians 4:31-32 ESV Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.

Take a look at Matthew West video that inspired the song "Forgiveness".  Watch it and see if you can be as brave as this mother who could find forgiveness for someone who hurt her.