"And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses." Mark 11:25. In this verse it is clear that Jesus commanded us to forgive all of those who has had wronged us in either word or deed. He further instructs us more on forgiveness in Matthew 5:44, "But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you."
With this subject of forgiveness there comes a couple of promises from Jesus that we need to pay close attention to. In Matthew 6:14-15, Jesus says, "For if we forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses." Jesus states that we should approach our Father in heaven in prayer for forgiveness of our sins after we have forgiven those who have wronged us. To some there are issues that are very hard to forgive others for and may even think that there are certain conditions that is impossible to forgive that person. If this is the situation for you, look to your Lord and Savior for guidance and strength. As Jesus was dying on the cross, after being beaten and mocked, he prayed to His Father, "Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them: for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots." Luke 23:34. Jesus is our example, we should look to Him for life's questions and to answer the question, "What Would Jesus Do?"
Remember, forgiveness is not only for the offender, but will also set you free and bring you closer to your Lord and Savior.
May God Bless!!
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