I’m going to be honest here. The subject of forgiveness always used to make me feel uncomfortable. Anytime I’m given the task to examine myself, it always seems to show up. Here’s my problem: “I forgive, but I don’t forget”.
Recently, I realized that not being able to forget is a burden that I no longer wanted to carry, so I took it to the Lord in prayer and overtime He has relieved me of this burden.
While many of us can relate to this statement, ” I forgive, but I don’t forget” the reality of forgiveness is that it’s more than just the words we say, it’s the things that we do that demonstrates our forgiveness.
In essence, we must learn how to forgive, not just with our lips but with our deeds.
“True forgiveness is a decision that we must intentionally commit to daily. And it doesn’t require us to forget but to remember—remember that we forgave.”
This is exactly what Jesus taught the disciples about forgiveness. When they asked him how many times should they forgive their brother of his offense. Jesus answered…
I tell you, not just seven times, but seventy times seven. (Matthew 18:22)
I always thought that number was a little insane. I mean really who wants to forgive a person that many times? But if we think about how many times the memory of what someone did or said comes against us, it’s that amount of times we are to remind ourselves we choose forgiveness.
As Kingdom people, the cross of Jesus is our constant reminder that we are forgiven.
Past, future, and present offenses have already been dealt with.
Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. (Roman 8:1)
As fallen creatures, I don’t think we will ever understand the depth of forgiveness. This is why God had to send His only begotten Son to do it for us.
While this is true, it doesn’t exempt us from the task of forgiveness. It should be a daily decision and it’s essential to accessing the keys of the Kingdom.
It’s impossible to experience forgiveness as God intended without the Holy Spirit. If you we desire to truly live a life where “whom the Son set free is free indeed” (John 8:36) we must accept the working of the Holy Spirit. When we initiate forgiveness, we give the Spirit access to do a work in us and through us.
Whenever you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against anyone, so that your Father who is in heaven will also forgive you your transgressions. (Mark 11:25)
Prayer for Forgiveness:
Heavenly Father, I recognize my lack and incompleteness without You. I have decided today to choose forgiveness for those that I’ve offended and those that have offended me. I realize that forgiveness is more than just a word but an action. I accept that when I’m on the side of forgiveness, I am on the side of love—your unfailing love, where I am free to be giving in my time, patience, compassion, understanding, kindness, silence, self-control and above all to share your love. Please help me through the work of Your Holy Spirit to take divine action in my life so that I may truly experience forgiveness as You intended. I release all of my weaknesses to You now and forever. I now walk in the freedom and power of Your forgiveness through your Son Jesus Christ.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen!
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