If you are a born-again Christian, then you know the power of forgiveness because you’ve already received it! Jesus Christ paid the ultimate price so that you could have a relationship with your Heavenly Father. But sometimes receiving forgiveness is easier than extending that forgiveness to others. Here are three life-changing reasons why you should forgive.
#1 Forgive So that You Can be Forgiven
In Luke 6:37 Jesus said, “Forgive others, and you will be forgiven.” Pretty clear, isn’t it? The forgiveness you receive from the Lord is dependent on the forgiveness you extend to others. Don’t let unforgiveness prevent you from the freedom you receive through Jesus.
#2 Forgive to Protect Your Spirit and Mind
Ephesians 4:30-31 says, “And do not bring sorrow to God’s Holy Spirit by the way you live. Remember, he has identified you as his own, guaranteeing that you will be saved on the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior.”
Unforgiveness works against your spirit. You grieve your spirit when you hold on to bitterness. Unforgiveness affects how you think, the decisions you make and even how you think about and interact with others. You risk becoming cynical about people’s motives or actions and shutting yourself off from potentially nurturing and healthy relationships
#3 Forgive to Protect Your Body
Unforgiveness also works against your body. Medical science has proven that chronic disease and compromised immune systems can be the result of a person’s failure to deal with emotional pain. Any number of physical complications can result from holding on to offenses…all resulting in possible life-shortening illnesses.
Forgiveness is a vital part of the successful Christian life—not only receiving forgiveness, but also offering it. Walking in forgiveness is a benefit for you. It affects your spirit, mind and body. So make the quality decision to forgive anyone who has wronged you—right now! Don’t wait. And if you need help knowing how to do it, read the article, How to Forgive in 3 Easy Steps.
Remember, there’s freedom in forgiveness!
