Regardless of our felt need for forgiveness – it is something that we all seem to want but struggle to give. Christians emphasize forgiveness because we have received it and want to share it. We understand that because of the sacrifice of Jesus, we have forgiveness for our sins. That forgiveness brings healing and allows us to live and love in peace with God and our fellow man. We understand that we offer forgiveness as much for ourselves as for the one that has offended.
When we forgive we find peace, because we have chosen mercy over revenge. If you don’t forgive others, you are not really hurting them, but you are hurting yourself.
Forgiveness brings us into the light of grace and peace and frees us from darkness. If you don’t think you need forgiveness perhaps you should take a long, honest look at yourself and who you are.
I believe that deep inside of us we know that we are vastly imperfect, that we have made many mistakes and we want God to free us from guilt and shame.
Christianity is faith that is focused on self-awareness.
Jesus tells us in 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.”
Jesus is basically saying that forgiven people should forgive people. No conditions because Jesus forgives us freely.
Paul tells us in Colossians 1:13-15, “For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.”
If we have forgiveness as believers, we should offer that same forgiveness to others. When we do, we find joy. When we don’t we are stuck in darkness.
We would love to meet you at First Baptist Church.
Sunday worship is at 10 a.m. Small Group Bible studies start at 8:45 a.m. FBC Wednesday nights start at 6 p.m. each Wednesday. We hope to see you in person this Sunday!
Know that you are loved! Pastor J. Ingram FBC Eufaula – www.eufaulafbc.org
