Matthew 6:14-15,  "For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins."

Think

"You've got it, now use it!" If you've ever been the recipient of a stranger paying for your coffee or meal, then you know that feeling of gratitude that is experienced. Suddenly, you are now faced with a choice. You can either keep for yourself what was given to you, or return the favor by giving it to someone else to brighten their day. When you choose to pass on what was given to you, the sensation of joy that you receive yourself can be so inspiring and motivating. As great as that is, imagine if that same cycle of receiving and giving could be repeated with something that is much more valuable, something that extends beyond our understanding! The reality is, it can. God has offered us the ultimate gift – the gift of forgiveness through the sacrifice of His Son, Jesus. The price He paid for our sins was infinitely more than a cup of coffee or a meal. And without that price being paid, we would be destined for an eternity separated from God, there would be no hope of ever entering Heaven and spending eternity with Him. If we receive such an extraordinary gift, we can't just keep it for ourselves. We must use it to forgive others, because we have been forgiven. It won't always be easy. Forgiveness is a gift that, in our way of thinking, should be earned; yet, it was given to us freely. Therefore, we can't keep it to ourselves. If you've got it, then use it! It could be the very thing to change the trajectory of someone's life.

Act

Forgiveness may be a process for you. After praying, write down the name of someone who has hurt you. Then, pray specifically for the help you need to forgive them. Now tear the paper up (or burn it) as an illustration of giving the situation up to God!

Pray

Dear Heavenly Father, "Thank You" doesn't seem enough for the gift of forgiveness You have given me. The very least I can do is to forgive others because You have forgiven me.  But, it's not always easy for me to forgive. Help me to forgive those in my life who need to be forgiven and to trust that You will take care of it. I know that by giving what has been given to me means giving the burden to You to carry. Thank You for taking that from me. In Jesus' name, Amen!