Why Forgive?

 

1.  Because you have been forgiven.

And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.  Matthew 6:12
Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. Colossians 3:13

 

2. Because not forgiving blocks my fellowship with God.

¹⁴ For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. ¹⁵ But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins. Matthew 6:14-15; Matthew 5: 23-24

 

How to Forgive:

 

1.  Release debts quickly; build trust slowly.

²⁵ “Settle matters quickly with your adversary who is taking you to court. Do it while you are still together on the way, or your adversary may hand you over to the judge, and the judge may hand you over to the officer, and you may be thrown into prison.”  Matthew 5:25

 

2. Surrender your right to get even.,

³⁸ “You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’ ³⁹ But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also.” Matthew 5:38-39

 

3.  Trust the justice and providence of God.

Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: "It is mine to avenge; I will repay," says the Lord.  Romans 12:19

 

But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.  Matthew 6:33; Genesis 50:20

 

4. Desire for good things to happen to your wrongdoer.

⁴³ “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ ⁴⁴ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, ⁴⁵ that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.” Matthew 5:43-45; Romans 12:20-21