The Decision to Forgive
Wednesday, July 15
The Decision to Forgive
“Bearing with one another, and forgiving one another… even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do.” Colossians 3:13
One of the clearest marks of a Christlike life is forgiveness. Paul doesn’t present forgiveness as something we wait to feel it is something we choose to do. Just as Christ has forgiven us completely and freely, we are called to forgive others in the same way. Forgiveness is not a feeling; it is a decision. It is choosing to release someone from the debt we feel they owe us, even when emotions are still healing.
This is not easy. But it is essential for healthy relationships and for a peaceful heart. When we refuse to forgive, bitterness takes root. But when we choose forgiveness, healing begins. Now, don’t get me wrong, forgiveness does not mean excusing wrong or pretending hurt never happened. It means trusting God with justice and refusing to let offense control our hearts.
When we walk in compassion, kindness, humility, and gentleness, forgiveness becomes possible. These qualities soften our hearts and remind us that we, too, have been forgiven much. At the center of it all is this truth: Christ forgave us fully and freely. Because of that, we are able to extend forgiveness to others, not in our own strength, but through His grace at work in us.
When we forgive, we are set free from bitterness, and our relationships are strengthened and restored. Remember this: true healing often begins the moment we choose to forgive.
Prayer for today: Lord, thank You for forgiving me completely through Christ. Help me to forgive others as You have forgiven me. Heal my heart from bitterness and give me the strength to choose forgiveness, even when it is difficult. Fill me with Your peace and teach me to walk in freedom and love. Amen.