I’ve been hearing a lot about forgiveness lately. It’s even been the topic of teaching at my church. What is so important about forgiveness anyway? Is it really necessary? Well, when we read the Word of God, we can see that it is. 

In Matthew 6:14 we read, “For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.”  And in Mark 11:25 we read, “And whenever you stand praying, if you have anything against anyone, forgive him and let it drop, in order that your Father Who is in heaven may also forgive you your own failings and shortcomings and let them drop.”

Consider what I heard one person say, that if Jesus had waited for us to ask for forgiveness, we would never have received it. Hmmm, kind of got me thinking.

Oftentimes we need to forgive others even if they do not ask for forgiveness.  When we do not forgive and instead harbor bitterness or anger in our hearts toward someone, it actually interferes with our relationship with God, hinders our prayers, and blocks our blessings!

Consider what the bible says in Luke 6:37b: “acquit, forgive and release (give up resentment, let it drop), and you will be acquitted and forgiven and released.” (The Amplified Bible) 

These verses tell me that God expects us to forgive, even requires it, and He promises to forgive us when we do.  He states that unless we forgive others, we will not be forgiven by Him.  I don’t know about you but I sure want God to forgive me for the things I’ve done wrong!

I also heard it said that a person who will not forgive does not realize what they themselves have been forgiven of.  The bible says that we are ALL sinners and fall short of the glory of God.  Jesus said in John 14:6 that He is the Way, the Truth and the Life, and that no one will get to the Father (in heaven) except by Him.  That means we must put our faith and trust in Him if we ever hope to meet our Father in heaven.  Jesus took our sins upon Himself on the cross in order that we would be forgiven for those sins. 

Have you put your faith and trust in Jesus?  If not, don’t delay.  DO IT TODAY!