Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. EPHESIANS 4: 32 NIV

Whether it is the driver who cut you off in traffic, a friend who betrays you, a boss who overlooks you, or a loved one who makes you feel inferior, there will always be someone in your life who needs your forgiveness. Sadly, sometimes the deep roots of hurt prevail and the bitterness tightens its grip on your spirit, making reconciliation very difficult.

But friend, when you remember the immense debt that Christ has pardoned you of, it is so much easier to forgive. Jesus freely relieves you of your sin debt and heals you because of His unmatchable love for you. However, He also teaches you to forgive others because He understands how absolutely devastating bitterness can be. He doesn’t want you imprisoned—He desires for you to experience the perfect freedom He bought you on the cross.

Therefore, friend, out of thankfulness to Jesus for His great gift of salvation, reflect the grace that you have been shown to others. You will never resemble your Savior more than when you do what He did for you: forgive.

Lord, grant me the courage to relinquish my resentment so I can reflect Your grace and forgive, amen.

In His presence . . . forgive others.

Stanley, Dr. Charles F. (2014-11-11). Every Day in His Presence (p. 278).