Forgiveness: What, Why, When and How
Posted on August 12th, 2014 by drhalla No Comments
Forgiveness: What, Why, When and How
The subject of this fifth blog in the series on forgiveness is the subject of un-forgiveness. In this blog, I address some of the reasons for a believer to fail to forgive. In the next I will address of this consequences of this failure. In the past, I have alluded to several reasons as to why a believer may fail to forgive. Consider these. One such reason may simply be a failure to realize he has sinned against a brother. This failure may be understandable and even excusable. I will cover this issue in our last blog under the heading: Cover and Confront: When?
Another reason may be a lack of understanding of what forgiveness is and the forgiver’s, and forgivee’s, status and identity as forgiven people. Such was the case with Simon (Luke 7:36-50) and the first servant (Matthew 18:21-35). Forgiveness is relational: God to you, you to God, and you to others. Being forgiven places the believer in a position of understanding how important relationships are and functioning accordingly (Matt. 22:37-40). This fact is highlighted by the simple truth that this is God’s world and not yours or mine. We live in it His way for His glory and we are blessed exponentially. When relationships are God-honoring, there is joy, peace, and contentment. Building and holding onto biblically strong relationships is facilitated by forgiveness. Such is the impetus of Matthew 5:23-24 and Luke 17:3-10.
Another reason for failing to forgive is simply that the person does not want to give up control. Failing to forgive and carrying a grudge go hand-in-hand. Failing to forgive or at least being at peace as far as it is possible with all men is an attack on God and His goodness and wisdom (Rom. 12:17-21 especially v.17) . The grudge holder functions as a troublemaker. Prideful, he functions as if: 1) relationships are not important; 2) he will carry the power and control of the situation by holding the offense over the other person; 3) God’s forgiveness of him at the cross is “no big deal.” It does not motivate him to forgive as he has been forgiven.
Application:
1. Where are you in your relationships – at home, church, work, socially?
2. Which ones do you need to reevaluate according to the biblical principles that we have been discussing?
3. Prioritize your answers and seek to think, desire, and act as a forgiven person.
4. Record the results.