being Merciful, Forgiving others.

We are called to be merciful just as our heavenly Father is merciful (Luke 6:36), and to forgive others as God has forgiven us in Christ (Ephesians 4:32). May these thoughts and reflections from scripture encourage you in the challenge, and lifestyle of forgiveness, and being merciful like our Heavenly Father.

1. Forgiving Yourself

Forgiving yourself means accepting the truth that God has already forgiven you in Christ. If God has forgiven you, then you can forgive yourself.

2. Forgiveness Is a Choice

Forgiveness is an act of the will — a deliberate decision. Because God commands us to forgive, it is something we can do. Some people hold on to anger as a way of protecting themselves from further hurt, but in reality, they only harm themselves. Others seek revenge, but Scripture says:

“It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord - Romans 12:19 (NIV)

Let God deal with the person. Release them from your personal judgement, because as long as you refuse to forgive, you remain tied to that person — chained to your past and bound by bitterness.

3. Forgiveness Means Living With the Consequences

Forgiveness is choosing to live with the consequences of another person’s sin. We all live with the consequences of someone else’s actions. Our only choice is whether we live with them in the bondage of bitterness or in the freedom of forgiveness. But where is the justice?

The cross makes forgiveness morally and spiritually right. Jesus died once for all sins. We are to forgive as Christ has forgiven us. He did that by taking upon himself the consequences of our sins. We forgive as Christ forgave us — by taking the consequences of sin upon Himself.

“God made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God.” — 2 Corinthians 5:21

Jesus did not wait for those crucifying Him to apologise. Even as they mocked Him, He prayed:

“Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” — Luke 23:34

4. Forgive From the Heart

Forgiveness must reach the emotional core of your life. If it doesn’t touch your heart, it remains incomplete. Speak to the Lord about the hurt and pain, this act of humility and surrender positions you before the Great Physician - and He can begin healing us.

5. Forgiveness Means Not Holding Sin Against Someone Any more

Bitter people often bring up past offences to make others feel as hurt as they do.

It is important to remember that forgiving someone does not mean you must tolerate ongoing abuse. God does not tolerate sin, and neither should you.

Set healthy, biblical boundaries that prevent further harm. Take a stand against sin while still extending grace and forgiveness to those who have hurt you.

The practice of forgiveness

There is no need to pray, “Lord, help me forgive”

He is already helping you and will be with you all the way through the process. 

And be careful saying, “Lord, I want to forgive”

Because that can reserve the requirements upon up to forgive.  Forgiveness is not a feeling — it is a decision, an action, a choice.

As a step of faith, and often to be repeated several times per day:

“Lord, I choose to forgive these people and what they did to me.”

A Prayer of Forgiveness

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank You for Your kindness, patience, and mercy toward me.

Your forgiveness and goodness has led me to repentance.

I choose to forgive (name) for (what they did or failed to do).

Lord, I surrender my feelings and my emotions to you. Thank You for setting me free from the bondage of bitterness.  Thank you for healing me.  I now ask You to bless those who have hurt me.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Your brother in Christ

Vinay Kumar