The Big Idea:
Forgiving others begins when we realize how much God has forgiven us. You and I could make a list of the offenses God has forgiven. We didn’t earn his forgiveness and we certainly don’t deserve it. He has offered us forgiveness because he loves us. When we realize that we have been forgiven for so much, it is a lot easier to offer forgiveness to others.
Main Points:
1. Jesus’ command to forgive is one of the most difficult commands for us to obey. A lot of times we simply don’t want to forgive. It feels to us that if we forgive, we are letting them get away with the injustice. “They don’t deserve forgiveness,” we say.
2. Why does God make a big deal about forgiveness? Forgiveness releases us from the offense. God offers us freedom.
3. Unforgiveness is a heavy burden. I think we all know what it feels like. But forgiveness is freedom. Where there was once sorrow, heaviness, and bitterness, is now comfort and peace. When we forgive we release others from the offense, but it also brings freedom to our hearts. We no longer carry it with us.
Today’s Scripture Verses:
Matthew 6:14-15 - “For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.”
Ephesians 4:32 - “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”
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