Forgiveness

From this weeks study of the New Testament the principle that caused deep thought and strong feelings for me is found in Matthew 6:15 and in Luke 6:37. Christ taught that if we do not forgive we will not be forgiven.

When we don’t forgive others we are denying that they too have access to the atonement and in turn denying ourselves it’s full power in our lives. The atonement can and does apply to all people. Christ suffered and died for us all. Forgiveness is for the individual doing the forgiving and never for the person who did the wrongdoing. It helps us to heal and to strengthen our relationship with Christ.

I wish forgiveness were always an easy process, however, in my experience, it takes practice and is a learned skill. Forgiving freely and easily isn’t something that the majority of us are able to do without many years of life experience. 

Forgiveness can be a delectate topic for many people. The pain others cause is real and at times seems insurmountable. The sorrow we experience in this life is so incredibly personal and how we cope with this pain just as unique. Christ can heal our broken hearts and with His help we can learn to forgive.