Date:
May 10, 2021Forgiveness and Bitterness
What does forgiveness mean, and what does it not mean? Chuck Swindoll cautions us to release any bitterness that haunts us today by totally forgiving our offenders.
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Forgiveness
The word forgiveness draws various reactions. If we’re talking about God’s forgiveness of us, it can be a soothing topic resulting in gratitude and peace. If we need to seek forgiveness from someone we’ve wronged, we might wrangle a bit with our pride before we finally approach that person in humility—but our resulting cleared conscience makes it well worth the effort.
Usually, however, the most uncomfortable kind of forgiveness is what we must extend to someone who has wronged us or hurt us deeply. The Bible says a lot about this kind of forgiveness—perhaps because our emotions arm wrestle with it and other lingering memories skirmish with it. It’s really hard to do.
Find out what God’s Word says about forgiveness, how essential it is to understand, and how to actually do it...if we want to grow in our walk with God.
How Can I Be More Gracious?
I believe one reason we fail to exercise grace in our relationships is because we don’t view people as they actually are. Instead, we look at them through the lens of how they hurt us, or our prejudices, or past experiences.
Beneath the Surface
On the surface Chuck Colson had everything but underneath his life was empty. It was only when he accepted Christ the emptiness was filled and he truly began to live.
Caught in the Backwash
Even though we are forgiven by God’s grace, sin has consequences and sometimes they’re devastating. When our actions harm others they can have lifelong ramifications.
Saying Sorry
When you’ve offended someone it’s not enough to make things right with God. You need to face the person you’ve hurt and say, “I’m sorry.” Admitting you’re wrong takes guts and strength of character.
Mending Fences
We’ve all hurt others, and no matter how much time has passed it’s not too late to reconcile and make things right. We all need grace, and we all need to extend grace. Mending broken relationships speaks volumes to those around you.
Forgiveness is the Key
You probably know by now life isn’t fair. And it’s easy to become bitter because of what happens—but if you don’t forgive you will be trapped in a prison of your own making. Forgiveness is the key to releasing you from bitterness, hatred, and resentment.
Strained Relationships
Just because there isn’t physical violence in your home doesn’t mean there aren’t strained relationships. But hope is not lost! Relationships can be restored and parents, this starts with you.
Preventative Theology
Many of us are programmed to have “corrective theology,” where grace is used as a tool to justify sin or take away the pain of consequences. Grace is not a cure-all and there are always consequences for sin.
Who Do You Trust With Your Life?
If you want to get beyond the grave you need to trust in the One who Himself has gotten beyond the grave and lives forever.
