Forgiveness

And forgive us our debts, as we
forgive our debtors. 
Matthew 6:12

The longer I remain on this Christian journey the more I see the need to extend the blessing of simple forgiveness to others. The world is very corrupt. But sometimes even professing Christians may have their own selfish agendas, motives and desires...

A few years ago, for example, there was a situation in which some friends of mine, without my knowledge or permission, gave an interview to someone in the media. I found out about it afterwards. And the results of their efforts were not only disappointing, but were potentially harmful to me.

Obviously, my friends were not being directed by the Lord. While I saw it for what it was - fleshly ambition cloaked in counterfeit godliness. For in due time it was revealed to me that this couple, who had their own small ministry, were hoping that the publicity would get them recognition, and that they would be elevated from obscurity within the body of Christ into the perceived "spotlight." At my expense they sought this, yet failed to achieve their goal.

Yes, it hurts when one discovers he's been used. It's happened to me many times before, and this incident was not the last time. Yet through the pain and betrayal comes a humbling from Christ. For when things like this occur, the quiet inner voice of the Holy Spirit gently reminds me that God has forgiven all my transgressions which I've committed against Him. So I must forgive those who did me wrong rather than allow a perceived injustice to grow into a grudge that would eventually cause me to become bitter. After all, God displayed His mercy and grace toward me. And Christ says to go and do likewise.

Forgiveness, therefore, is a gift to give to the offender so that all parties may go on with their lives in peace.

D.B.