We all struggle with the issue of forgiveness. Especially forgiving people we believe have done us wrong; cheated us, stolen from us, betrayed us, denied us or hurt us in some way or another. It doesn’t matter how bad the “crime” is. I know; I’ve often thought, “You don’t know how much I’ve suffered, what it cost me.” What does matter more than you think, though, is the position such thoughts put you in with your Creator and heavenly Father.
RELEVANCE
David had a unique revelation. He understood that no matter what the offense, all sins committed against others are inherently against God. How? As Creator, He takes it personally. Really. See how David responded to God after being convicted in his heart of committing adultery and setting up the woman’s husband to be killed.
For I acknowledge my transgressions,
And my sin is always before me.
Against You, You only, have I sinned,
And done this evil in Your sight –
(Psalm 51:3-4)
He had a pretty powerful revelation. He understood that Sovereign God counts sins against others as sins against Him. It, therefore, grieves the Holy Spirit. Jesus affirmed this in His statement, “inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me” (Matthew 25:40).
As much as we sin against God in harboring unforgiveness towards others, we likewise demonstrate genuine faith and real TRUST IN GOD to ultimately right wrongs and bring ultimate redemption, restoration, restitution and recovery. David’s testimonies can be a great source of hope.
Oh, taste and see that the LORD is good;
Blessed is the man who trusts in Him!
Oh, fear the LORD, you His saints!
There is no want to those who fear Him.
(Psalm 34:8-9)
REFLECT AND RELATE
Think of any offense you have as a splinter or poisonous snake bite that can cause (or has caused) serious damage by the infection or poison spreading. Now think about how relieved you would feel if all of a sudden ALL the damage was reversed and you were COMPLETELY HEALED. That’s what happens when you apply the blood of Messiah Jesus on the wound. It releases the power of forgiveness. It also sows seeds of forgiveness you want returning back to you. May you experience His peace.
REFERENCES
Psalm 34:1-22; Psalm 73:1-28