Forgiveness can be difficult– particularly when offenders do not recognize or acknowledge the wrong they have done. It is also difficult to forgive when death or life-altering situations are involved. God is not ignorant of the various events that make forgiveness difficult. When it is hard to forgive, remember 2 Corinthians 10:3-6
For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds; Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ; And having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled ~ 2 Corinthians 10:3-6 (KJV)
The truth is that unforgiveness exalts itself against the knowledge of God because it hinders our spiritual growth, and it is disobedience to God. God instructs us to forgive. The Bible says: “And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.”~ Ephesians 4:32 (KJV) and “For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you” ~ Matthew 6:14(KJV).
When it is hard to forgive, bring into captivity every thought justifying unforgiveness. Bring into captivity every negative thought about others. When it is hard to forgive, ask God for grace to forgive. Grace is the empowerment to do those things that are naturally difficult. The gospel of grace is not about doing bad things we can get away with. It is about what God can do through broken and yielded vessels.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you for forgiving my sins. I repent for the sin of unforgiveness. In the name of Jesus, give me the grace to quickly forgive and love unconditionally. I bring into captivity every thought of unforgiveness. I receive the grace to think good and lovely thoughts about those who offend me.
Would you like to become a member of God’s family? Please say the prayer below and let me know about it here.
Say this: Heavenly Father,
I acknowledge that I am a sinner. I believe you exist and you sent Jesus to die for me. I receive your love and forgiveness. Reveal yourself to me. I accept Jesus as my Lord and Savior. Amen
Welcome to God’s family!
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Temitope Michael-Olaniran (Fafore) is a wife and #boymom. She is the author of A Christian Mother’s Creed. She created this space to share spiritual experiences of motherhood, provide emotional support to families and develop a virtual community where Christian mothers can share Biblical viewpoints on parenting and other aspects of life.
As a lifelong learner with a passion for mental health, Temi is a PhD student (Infant and Early Childhood Development specializing in Mental Health and Developmental Disorders). She is a Perinatal, Infant, and Early Childhood Mental Health consultant, Certified New Parent Educator, trained Postpartum Doula, and U.S. Army veteran.
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This is a fascinating post.
Thanks for pointing out that we need to take captive thoughts of unforgiveness, since not forgiving others is a major hindrance to our spiritual growth.
I think too, the the spiritual fruit of self-control, outlined in Galations 5 also helps us to take thoughts captive.
Thanks, Temi.
Amen! Thank your for sharing, grandma Sally!❤
Yes! I see self-control in forgiveness. I see it!
This passage is in direct relations to my life right now. Thank you for the post and the reminder to be forgiving.
Thank you for sharing Bethany ❤
I am glad to know the post resonates with you this season. Glory to God!
You are beautiful in the picture precious daughter 🙂
When I told my father I forgave him, he accepted Christ the same morning. Forgiveness can be powerful.
Wow! Thank you for sharing your testimony, Papa Matt! Wow!❤