Forgiveness

Key passages

Matthew 18:21-22 – "Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, 'Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?' Jesus answered, 'I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.'"

Colossians 3:13 – "Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you."

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

Reflection

We forgive because we have been forgiven. Forgiveness is not always a one-time moment but often a process; it is both a decision and a dependence on God's grace.

Questions for reflection

• Is there someone you have not yet forgiven? What would it cost you to forgive?
• How does remembering God's forgiveness of you help you forgive others?
• Do you need to ask someone for forgiveness? What step could you take this week?

Action plan

• Pray for one person who has hurt you, asking God to help you forgive.
• If appropriate, have a conversation or write a note to extend or ask for forgiveness.
• Read Matthew 18 and Ephesians 4 on Bible.com and reflect on "forgive as the Lord forgave you."