Daily Devotions

Do you find it hard to forgive people?
Paul wrote these words to believers in Colossians 3:12-15, “Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. And above all these things put on charity (love), which is the bond of perfectness. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.”
Who is it that you find it very hard to forgive, but as a believer in Christ, being obedient to His Word, you know you need to forgive? Even now, the Holy Spirit brings the person to mind because He wants to set you free from bitterness. He may even remind you of individuals you thought you’d already forgave and prompt you to examine your heart. Listen to Him – He knows when more healing is necessary.
Likewise, you may be tempted to stop reading this devotional because confronting unresolved anger and bitterness is painful. But realize, unforgiveness can damage your health, thwart your peace, hinder your joy, and harm your relationships. Bitterness prevents you from living the abundant life God created you to enjoy. And as long as you refuse to forgive the offender, you allow him or her to control you.
Please, don’t allow resentment to imprison you. Release your anger to the Lord and trust Him to heal you. The Heavenly Father knows what’s happened and He judges the situation with wisdom and righteousness. So let go of the pain, forgive, and trust God to clear you. Then allow Him to heal your heart as only He can.
Prayer: “Lord, please help me forgive those who hurt me. Heal me of this anger and bitterness and show me how to live in Your freedom, amen.”r