Theme: Forgiveness

The Lenten Season

Theme: Forgiveness

By Rev. Dr. Emmanuel E James

Read: Jer. 31:34; Col. 3:12-14; 1 John 1:9

 “To err is human but to forgive is divine.” Forgiveness is God’s miracle of grace. It cost God the Cross of our Lord Jesus Christ before He could forgive our sin and remain a Holy God. The only way we can be forgiven of our sins is through the atonement of Jesus Christ. God’s forgiveness is only possible because of His love and grace towards us. Forgiveness means that I am forgiven and taken into a recreated and restored relationship with God and others. Forgiveness brings a new disposition, the disposition of Christ. Therefore, I will forgive and be forgiven. This will bring peace to my heart. If you dislike forgiving, you will be miserable but if you forgive and forget, it will bring you peace and harmony. Let us take a look at some Bible verses on forgiveness. This will enable us to realize what God says about forgiveness and what He wants us to do about it.

“Help us, O God our Savior, for the glory of your name; deliver us and forgive our sins for your name's sake” (Psalm 79:9).

Joshua said to the people, "You are not able to serve the Lord. He is a holy God; he is a jealous God. He will not forgive your rebellion and your sins. 20 If you forsake the Lord and serve foreign gods, he will turn and bring disaster on you and make an end of you, after he has been good to you." (Josh 24:19-20)

 “Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins” (Matt 6:12, 14-15).

 “Then he opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures. 46 He told them, "This is what is written: The Christ will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, and repentance and forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.”  (Luke 24:45-47).

During this week I will:

•          Consider about the many times that God has forgiven you.

•          Seek forgiveness from someone you have hurt.

•          Forgive someone who has hurt you.

•          Ask God to forgive your sins and commit your life to Him. Accept Jesus as your personal Lord and Savior.

•          This week I will forgive someone who makes me upset, angry and miserable. Now I know that this will bring peace to my heart.

•          Think about better ways to resolve problems at home and at work.

•          Tell your family members you love them. Spend time with them, share love and memories,  play  and pray.