May 7

God's Forgiveness

And forgive us our sins, for we also forgive everyone who sins against us. And lead us not into temptation.’ — Luke 11:4 BSB

Forgiveness is a distinctive feature of Christianity. The ancient moral philosophies upheld four primary virtues: justice in human relationships, prudence in decision-making, fortitude in enduring hardship, and temperance in self-restraint. However, they had no concept of mercy or forgiveness, as these do not come naturally to the human heart. Forgiveness is a divine gift that Christ brought with Him from Heaven. While He was on earth, He forgave freely and left behind a command for His followers to forgive just as they have been forgiven.

Jesus does not mean that God’s forgiveness depends on our own, nor does our forgiveness cause God to forgive us. Rather, the truth is that God cannot forgive a heart that refuses to forgive others. The only sure sign that our repentance is genuine is our willingness to forgive those who have wronged us. If we hold on to bitterness and refuse to forgive, it shows that our relationship with God is not right, and our love for Him is lacking. Our love for God is reflected in how we love others. If we cannot love those we see, we cannot truly love the God we do not see. Examine your heart today. If there is anyone in your life you are unwilling to forgive or pray for, it is a sign that something is amiss in your relationship with God.

Start by praying for those who have hurt you. Say, “Forgive us—that person who hurt me, that one who wronged me. They need forgiveness, and I do too. We are both in the wrong. I could have made it easier for them to do right.” Then, ask for an opportunity to reconcile with them. Finally, ask for God’s grace to overflow in you when you meet them, so that you can show them the gracious love that covers a multitude of sins. Be willing to let God’s mercy flow through you in kind words and tender actions.

Prayer

Forgive us, Lord, and remove our sins as far as the east is from the west. Cast them into the depths of the sea and remember them no more. May we be kind, tender-hearted, and forgiving, just as You in Christ have forgiven us. Amen.