Forgiveness is one of the most powerful forces we can embrace. Matthew 6:12 (NKJV) reminds us, “And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.” This simple phrase holds the key to healing broken relationships, mending past wounds, and finding peace.
But let’s be honest—it’s often easier said than done. After an amazing Encounter weekend, baptisms, and people coming to Christ at Rhema South Coast Family Church, Pastor Larry’s sermon touched on this vital topic. Forgiveness is at the heart of who we are called to be as Christians.
What Does It Mean to Truly Forgive?
Forgiveness goes beyond just saying, “I forgive you.” It’s about letting go of hurt and releasing someone from the debt they owe you. Matthew 6:14–15 (NKJV) says it clearly: “For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.”
This was the cornerstone of Pastor Larry’s message this past Sunday. Forgiveness reflects Christ’s very nature. Nothing about being Christlike stands out more than our ability to forgive, even when it’s difficult.
To dive deeper into Pastor Larry’s message on forgiveness and healing relationships, watch the full Rhema South Coast Family Church sermon here.
Understanding Our Own Forgiveness
We can only forgive others once we fully grasp the magnitude of how much we’ve been forgiven. Imagine if God kept score of every sin we’ve ever committed. That would be terrifying! But in Christ, all of that has been wiped clean. Ephesians 1:7 (NKJV) says, “In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace.”
It’s this understanding that empowers us to forgive others, no matter how deep the hurt. We’ve been forgiven, and we have God’s DNA running through us. We have the power, in Christ, to forgive as we have been forgiven.
Forgiveness Is a Choice
Forgiveness isn’t just a feeling; it’s a choice. It’s an intentional decision to release someone from the offense they’ve committed against you. It doesn’t always come with immediate peace, but it leads to peace. Jesus commanded us to forgive, knowing that it requires faith. Mark 11:25 (NLT) says, “But when you are praying, first forgive anyone you are holding a grudge against, so that your Father in heaven will forgive your sins, too.”
Holding onto grudges or bitterness is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to get hurt. Instead, choose life. Choose forgiveness.
The Cost of Unforgiveness
What happens when we don’t forgive? Unforgiveness weighs us down and causes division in our relationships. It becomes a stumbling block not just between us and others, but between us and God. Pastor Larry emphasised that when we refuse to forgive, we are living in contradiction to the new nature Christ has given us.
It’s vital to understand that forgiveness isn’t just for the other person—it’s for you too. It frees your heart from resentment and makes room for love and healing. Colossians 3:13 (NKJV) encourages us to “bear with one another, and forgive one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do.”
Walking in Christlike Forgiveness
Living a forgiving life requires us to model ourselves after Christ. Jesus forgave even those who crucified Him, saying, “Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing” (Luke 23:34 NKJV). If Jesus, the Son of God, can forgive such terrible offences, who are we to withhold forgiveness from others?
It takes faith to forgive. The act of forgiving draws us closer to Christ and strengthens our spiritual walk. It’s a reminder that we are not perfect, yet we are loved and forgiven by a perfect God. Each time we forgive, we reflect His love and grace to the world.
How to Live a Forgiven and Forgiving Life
Living a life of forgiveness isn’t something we do once and forget. It’s a daily decision, a spiritual discipline we need to practise.
Here are some steps to help you live a life of forgiveness:
- Be Honest with God: Confess your struggles in forgiving others. Let Him know your pain and ask for His strength.
- Take Communion Regularly: Communion is a reminder of Christ’s sacrifice and the forgiveness He offers. It can help reset your heart toward forgiveness.
- Apply the Blood Daily: Confession of Christ’s redeeming blood empowers our faith and helps us release others from their debts.
- Pray for Your Offenders: Ask God to bless those who have wronged you. As hard as this is, it changes your heart toward them and frees you from bitterness.
Forgiveness Heals Relationships
No relationship can thrive without forgiveness. Whether it’s in a marriage, friendship, or family, forgiving one another is key to maintaining a deep, meaningful connection. Forgiveness promotes tolerance, allowing us to process failure in a healthy way. Pastor Larry reminded us that the storms we face in life are the same for everyone, but it’s whether we are built on rock or sand that will determine the outcome.
The forgiveness we extend to others doesn’t mean we ignore or excuse the hurt they’ve caused. It means we deal with it in a way that reflects Christ’s love. We don’t sweep things under the rug; instead, we address them with purity, not out of frustration, anger, or resentment.
Explore more insights on relationships and forgiveness in the Family Matters series here.
Choose Forgiveness Today
Rhema South Coast Family Church, forgiveness is not easy! However, it is essential for our spiritual growth and relationships. I challenge you today to let go of any grudges or unforgiveness you may be holding onto. Start with a prayer and ask God to help you release those burdens. Matthew 5:44 (NKJV) says, “Love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you.”
Forgiveness is the ultimate act of love.
A Prayer for Forgiveness
Let’s end with a prayer.
Heavenly Father, thank You for the forgiveness You have extended to me through Christ. Help me to forgive those who have wronged me, just as You have forgiven me. Give me the strength to release bitterness, anger, and resentment, and fill my heart with Your peace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
