THOUGHTFUL THINGS
A Mark of Christlikeness
Forgiveness is sweet as honey.” (Psalm 119:103 uses honey as a metaphor for sweetness in God’s Word. That is what forgiveness is like.
As followers of Christ, one of the greatest challenges we face is learning to forgive those who hurt us. Forgiveness is not always easy, but it is essential to living a life that reflects Jesus Christ. He is our ultimate example of love, mercy, and grace. If we desire to be like Him, we must strive to forgive as He forgave.
The Bible makes it clear that forgiveness is not optional for believers— it is a command. In Ephesians 4: 32, the Apostle Paul writes, “And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” This verse reminds us that our forgiveness of others should mirror the forgiveness we have received from God. He forgave us when we were undeserving, and now He calls us to do the same for others.
When Jesus was on the cross, enduring unimaginable pain and betrayal, His response was not anger or bitterness but forgiveness. He prayed, “Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do” (Luke 23:34). If our Savior could forgive those who crucified Him, how much more should we forgive those who hurt us in far smaller ways?
Forgiveness does not mean excusing wrongdoing or forgetting the hurt; it means accepting the wrongdoing and acknowledging the hurt. It means releasing the offender from the debt they owe us and surrendering our pain to God. Unforgiveness keeps us in bondage, but forgiveness brings freedom, peace, and healing. Holding on to bitterness only harms us and hinders our relationship with God.
Jesus taught this principle clearly in the Lord’s Prayer: “And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors” (Matthew 6:12). He even warned in Matthew 6:15, “But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” Forgiving others is not just an act of kindness—it is an act of obedience. When we forgive, we demonstrate the character of Christ to the world. Forgiveness shows love in action. It reflects humility, grace, and trust in God’s justice. Let us remember Colossians 3: 13, “Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.”
Today, ask yourself: Is there someone I need to forgive? Don’t let bitterness take root. Follow Christ’s example and choose forgiveness. It may not be easy, but with God’s help, it is possible—and it will bring peace to your soul.
We invite you to visit us at The Family Church, 9456 Hwy 146 N, Hardin, TX. You can also watch our services live via Facebook at @tfchardin.