Forgiveness
By Dr. Lawrence Osifo
Introduction
Beloved in Christ, today we will be reflecting on a powerful and life-transforming subject: Forgiveness. Forgiveness is not just a command from God; — it is the very essence of the Christian life. Without forgiveness, there is no salvation, no peace, and no love.
Jesus Christ, our perfect example, taught us forgiveness not only in words but also in action. On the Cross, with His last breath, He prayed: “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do” (Luke 23:34).This shows us that forgiveness is not optional for the child of God; — it is a must.
READ: Matthew 18:21–22:“Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, ‘Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?’Jesus answered, ‘I tell you, not seven times, but seventy times seven times”
NOTE:
1. Forgiveness is God’s Nature• God Himself is the source of forgiveness.• Psalm 103:10–12 reminds us that “He does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities… as far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us.”• If God forgives us daily; we must not withhold forgiveness from others also.
2. Forgiveness is Freedom• Un-forgiveness is a prison. It locks us in bitterness, anger, and resentment.• Forgiveness sets us free. It heals the heart, restores peace, and opens the door for God’s blessings.• Colossians 3:13 says: “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance… Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”
3. Forgiveness is a Command, Not an Option• Jesus did not say “if you feel like it, forgive.” He said in Matthew 6:14–15; that “if you forgive others… your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others, your Father will not forgive your sins.”• Forgiveness is not based on whether the offender deserves it. It is based on obedience to God.
4. Forgiveness Reflects Christ in Us• The world may say “revenge,” but Christ says “forgive.”• When we forgive, we shine as lights in a dark world.• The story of Joseph in Genesis 50:20; is a powerful example. He forgave his brothers who sold him into slavery, saying: “You meant evil against me, but God meant it for good.”
5. Forgiveness Brings Healing and Reconciliation• Forgiveness heals broken relationships, families, churches, and communities.• It is the foundation of true love.• 1 Corinthians 13:5 says: “Love keeps no record of wrongs.”Practical
Steps to Forgiveness:
1. Pray for strength – Forgiveness is not always easy, but with God’s help it is possible.
2. Remember God’s mercy ; – He forgave us much more than what others owe us.
3. Release the offender; – Choose to let go of the hurt and hand it over to God.4. Walk in love – Replace bitterness with kindness and compassion.
Conclusion
Beloved, forgiveness is the key to peace with God, peace with others, and peace within ourselves. If you are holding on to hurt or bitterness today, God is calling you to let it go.Forgive, not because they deserve it, but because you are forgiven.Forgive, not because it is easy, but because it is Christ-like.Forgive, because your destiny is too great to be held back by bitterness.
Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for the forgiveness we have through Jesus Christ. Give us the grace to forgive those who have hurt us, just as You have forgiven us. Heal our wounds, restore our peace, and help us to walk in love and mercy. In Jesus’ mighty name we pray, Amen.