Forgiveness in a time of division

Nations rage, political leaders rage, drivers rage, spouses rage, and all involved are deeply hurt in this process.

“Why do the nations rage and the people plot a vain thing? The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together against the Lord and against His anointed, saying, Let us break their bonds in pieces and cast away their cords from us.” Psalm 2:1-3.

With people in turmoil around the globe, and with hurt feelings abounding, it would be a good time to follow the example of Jesus, who made it His practice to forgive those who wronged Him. You may have serious problems in your life caused by others that can only be healed when you forgive the one or ones involved.

Jesus taught His followers to turn the other cheek when they were being mistreated, and even spoke forgiveness from the cross. You may be hurting, not only because of what has been done to you, but because of your inability to forgive those who have hurt you.

Your unforgiveness hurts you more than it hurts the person you need to forgive. Unforgiveness is like a cancer that can eat you alive.

In the Lord’s Prayer, Jesus taught us that we would be forgiven in the same way that we forgive others.

You can find a new freedom in your life if you will forgive those who have hurt and wronged you. Some people treat us wickedly, and while you may in a tough situation need to remove yourself from continual hurt, you will still need to practice forgiveness.

The other person’s problem is not our main problem, but our problem is our reaction to their problem.

Make it a way of life to forgive people around you who have wronged you and you will experience a peace and usually see a difference in the life of the one you have forgiven.

Have a great fall and expect great things from the Lord.

Ken Lawrence is pastor of River of Life Fellowship. He can be reached at sandpointriveroflife.com or by phone at 208-255-7111.