Forgive Others!
I have made many mistakes in my life and I honestly don't mind admitting that openly. As a matter of fact, I don't mind taking the blame for a mistake I have made. I had prayed this week about writing these devotions and I have preached time and time again on the subject of forgiveness. I believe in practicing what I preach and teach. I must admit that sometimes forgiveness is difficult, but we must understand the dangers of bitterness and carrying grudges so we can enjoy the freedom that comes from forgiveness.
I have been told before, "What you did is unforgivable" by truthfully forgetting to do something by mistake. I have been ridiculed and blamed for things that I had nothing to do with. I have been blasphemed for preaching and proclaiming God's truth. I have had a few people get upset with me, ignore me, and tell an untruth about me because God has moved me from one ministry to another. I have had very harsh things spoken to me and behind my back, when I was only following the Lord's will. I could keep on and on about my experiences that may seem wrong or unfair.
Every time someone sins against you and you have to forgive them, God is just reminding you that you, too had to be forgiven. Just this morning, my forgiveness was put to the test in a certain situation where me and my family were wronged by someone elses actions, but I was quickly reminded as I was reading Ephesians that we are to forgive others for the same reason and in the same way that God has forgiven us. AMEN!
Ephesians 4:32 reads: "And be ye kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you."
~Pastor Shane