Read
Proverbs 14:30, “A heart at peace gives life to the body,”
Think
Have you ever tweaked your back, twisted an ankle, or hurt your knee, and rather than addressing the issue, you just tried to deal with the pain? What often happens is that one small injury can affect the way you function in other areas. You end up walking with a limp or sitting in an odd position. And it can lead to a new problem or a more serious injury somewhere else.
When we hold on to unforgiveness, it results in bitterness that takes root in our hearts. It affects us relationally, emotionally, and spiritually. But as Proverbs 14:30 says, when our heart is at peace, it has a life-giving impact on our whole body. When we forgive others, we experience a heart at peace because we connect to the One who forgave us.
The cross gives us the freedom to admit our mistakes, ask for forgiveness, and forgive others who have sinned against us. The results are unbelievable! When we put our faith in Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, not only do we experience the forgiveness of our sin, but we also find that we have a new identity as a chosen, beloved, adopted, and redeemed child of God (Ephesians 1:3-14; Colossians 3:12-13). When we grasp the depth of God’s love for us, we can let go of the pride, fear, and defensiveness that keep us from forgiving others.
Act
Test the power of forgiveness this week and see how you are changed. Maybe there is something big you are already thinking of, or maybe there is a small opportunity this week to extend forgiveness to someone.
Pray
Heavenly Father, please give me the eyes to see that Your love for me – demonstrated by your death on the cross – unleashes a power to forgive others beyond my own strength. Heal my heart and make me whole as I forgive others. In Jesus’ name, Amen.