TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Romans 12:18
Listen: Romans 12
TODAY’S MESSAGE
By its nature, forgiveness can be incredibly difficult. It may seem impossible depending on the severity of the offense. Senior Pastor Jeff Manion explains that it’s important for us to understand what forgiveness is and what it is not necessarily. Forgiveness means we no longer hold the guilty party responsible in our heart. We allow God’s grace and mercy to flow through us to the person who has caused us significant pain.
It does not mean that other things automatically follow. For example, it doesn’t mean that trust is restored. Trust is earned over time and it may be a lengthy time (if at all) for trust to be regained. Forgiveness doesn’t mean a return to a job when an offense results in the loss of a job. Finally, it doesn’t necessarily mean restoration. Sometimes the damage is so severe that a previous relationship will never be restored like it was. True forgiveness can take place without any of these three necessarily following.
IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY
Forgiveness can often be the first step in “living at peace” with everyone. It may not mean regained trust, a returned job and restored relationships. But forgiveness is necessary as we “overcome evil with good” (Romans 12:21). In your prayer time, ask God for wisdom as you work through forgiveness with someone who’s hurt you. Ask for the Spirit’s help to achieve appropriate, God-honoring outcomes.
Download a printable PDF of the BTW week here.
