Be kind, compassionate and forgiving to one another
I don’t know about you, but for me, the end of the year always seems to turn into an incredibly busy season.
Somewhere in all the business, it’s easy to let all my activities and commitments keep me from spending time with Jesus, much like Martha in Luke 10:38-42.
I have to be intentional about setting aside time to be with God, and it helps to have a little guidance along the way. That’s why this week we’re focusing on 7 Questions to Start the Year Right.
Today’s question: Who is one person I can choose (perhaps choose again) to forgive?
Who comes to mind when you read the following verses?
-
“But to you who are listening I say: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you” – Luke 6:27 NIV
-
Do not gloat when your enemy falls; when they stumble, do not let your heart rejoice. – Proverbs 24:17 NIV
-
“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbour and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” – Matthew 5:43-44 NIV
Or ask yourself this: “What have been some of my most painful interpersonal experiences this last year?”
Do one or more names come to mind? Now comes the most challenging part: Forgiving them!
It is super important to let go of offences and choose to forgive those who’ve hurt you. Jesus said:
“And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.” – Mark 11:25 NIV
Forgiveness is hard, I know. If you need a little more time and help to forgive, I recommend the reading plan I wrote about forgiveness on the YouVersion Bible App.
And if you’d like to talk with someone about forgiveness, just reply to this email. One of our e-coaches would be happy to connect with you.
