What does it mean to be Forgiven?

Some of us struggle with forgiving others because we haven’t grasped fully how we are forgiven by God. Perhaps there’s a part of us that can’t really forgive ourselves, let alone accept the free and clear gift from God. What does it mean to be F.O.R.G.I.V.E.N.?

F – Favor received from God.
“Blessed are those whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered.” (Romans 4:7)
When we are forgiven by God, we are set free from guilt, shame, and regret.

O – Obedience to God’s word.
“And whenever you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against anyone, so that your Father also who is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.” Mark 11:25
When we are forgiven by God, our hearts are compelled to forgive others in obedience.

R – Repentant after honest confession.
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9)
When we are forgiven by God, He cleanses us from all unrighteousness.

G – Granted in spite of ourselves.
“To the Lord our God belong mercy and forgiveness, for we have rebelled against him.” (Daniel 9:9)
When we are forgiven by God, He knows our weaknesses and yet still forgives again.

I – Imitated by following God’s example of forgiveness.
“Forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive.” (Colossians 3:13)
When we are forgiven by God, we have power from the Holy Spirit to forgive others.

V – Very expensive.
“Indeed, under the law almost everything is purified with blood, and without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness of sins.” (Hebrews 9:22)
When we are forgiven by God, we have received the benefits of Christ’s sacrifice because of our sins.

E – Emptied into the depths of the sea.
“You will cast all our sins into the depths of the sea.” (Micah 7:19)
When we are forgiven by God, He doesn’t keep bringing it up over and over—it’s done.

N – Necessary part of our Christian walk.
“Lord, how often will my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? As many as seven times?” (Matthew 18:21)
When we are forgiven by God, we will constantly need forgiveness as well as forgiving others.

Prayer

Dear Lord, I seek forgiveness for my sins. You are a good Father, and I want to live out Your example of love and forgiveness towards others. In Jesus’ name, amen.

In His Service,

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