Ephesians 4:32 – 5:1

“Be kind and compassionate to one another forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.”

The Lord’s prayer gives us an example of forgiveness that Jesus taught in the Gospels, “Forgive us our sins, for we also forgive everyone who sins against us.” God forgives us not because we forgive others but solely because of His great mercy. Its part of our salvation. How can we not forgive others when God has been so gracious to forgives us of our sins and trespasses? It can be difficult to follow His example but if we delve into the Gospels, we will see example after example of this forgiveness that Jesus offered. He even asked God to forgive those who persecuted and killed Him. As we continue to understand His mercy for us, we should be able to be an example of forgiveness of others, one that stands in contrast with most of the world around us. Who do you need to forgive?

Dear Lord, thank you for your forgiveness for my sins and trespasses. Help me to forgive others just as you have forgiven me. Give me strength to not focus on the faults of others but to be able to see them as you do. Thank you for your mercy. I pray this in Jesus’ name, Amen.