New Year’s Theme #4: Forgive More Freely

Being completely forgiven of sin is one of the most freeing moments of a believer’s life. Our sins can separate us from God and burden us down with regret, guilt, and shame. When we experience God’s forgiveness, we can also forgive others of their transgressions against us. Forgiveness is a choice we make out of thankfulness and obedience to the Lord.

Sometimes it can be difficult to let go and forgive, especially if the other person or people remain unrepentant for their sins against us. It’s in these times that we can talk to the Lord and work our forgiveness through Him rather than through the unrepentant. As we do this, we can experience His freedom from harboring bitterness against them. The Holy Spirit does a great internal work in our hearts, and we are set free to accomplish the purposes He has placed on our hearts.

Forgiving more freely doesn’t mean our transgressors get off the hook for the pain they caused. The consequences of their actions may still remain in spite of our forgiveness. By forgiving others, we actually let ourselves off the hook of seeking revenge and instead let God take care of our enemies. How can we forgive more freely?

We forgive more freely when we make the choice to forgive out of obedience (Luke 6:37).

We forgive more freely when we ask the Lord to heal our hearts from the wounds of the wicked (Psalm 147:3).

We forgive more freely when we remember we’ve been forgiven of our sins (Colossians 3:13).

We forgive more freely when we accept that God will be our Avenger (Romans 12:19).

We forgive more freely when we let go of an unforgiving attitude (Hebrews 12:1).

Prayer

Dear Lord, I want to forgive more freely in the New Year. I pray for Your help to release my need for vengeance and trust You to right all the wrongs. In Jesus’ name, amen.

In His Service,

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