From; Brenda Walsh Ministries
A Permanent Attitude
Forgiveness is more difficult for some people than others. Prideful people struggle with being able to admit when they’re wrong, so apologizing is especially difficult. Muttering an “I’m sorry” under their breath is about all they can muster, and many times they can’t even do that. Others who have low self-esteem are constantly apologizing, even when it’s not their fault. Neither example is the kind of forgiveness that God talks about in Matthew 6:14-15: “If you forgive those who sin against you, your heavenly Father will forgive you. But if you refuse to forgive others, your Father will not forgive your sins.” When someone has done something to hurt you, no matter how horrendous it is, God requires you to forgive. Many times, the pain that was inflicted is so deep that forgiving is not humanly possible. But God has you covered! All you need to do is pray for God to put “His” forgiveness in your heart, and you can love your enemy with “God’s love” and forgive with “God’s strength.” Forgiveness is not an occasional act; it is a permanent attitude. There will be times when you’re reminded of past hurts, and those old feelings of bitterness begin to creep into your heart. Immediately send up a prayer of strength to keep you in the attitude of forgiveness. Be thankful that God is always there for you to call on and ask Him to give you a forgiving heart. No one is perfect, and you will make mistakes too. It’s equally important that you ask for forgiveness when you’re in the wrong. Life is too short to waste time being bitter and angry. God wants you to forgive because it is the only way to have real peace and joy. But most of all, the best reason to forgive is because it is the only way to have eternal life. Nothing is worth missing out on eternity, so pray for a humble heart and a permanent attitude of forgiveness. Text: Matthew 5:7, Luke 17:3, Mark 11:25, Proverbs 17:9