Forgiveness!!!

The word forgiveness is not new to us. However, the extent to which we forgive one another is still an issue for concern. Irrespective of the offence, the hurt and the pain, it is important to let go by forgiving. You may say, it easier said than done! I can understand what you mean since some circumstances and situations may make forgiveness a very hard option to think of, however, when you forgive, YOU ARE DOING YOURSELF A FAVOUR that cannot be measured. Someone shared a personal story about her brother who was newly married. The brother was shot in the eye and he lost his sight before he could see any of his 'would be' children. Fortunately, the perpetrator was found and it happened to be a well-known person to the family. Today, the man  who was shot has lovely children but he cannot see them. He was asked what should be done to the man who shot him, but having a forgiving heart, he forgave the man and hope and pray that God will restore his sight someday. This is very difficult for many, who would rather choose tit for tat! 

As children of God and followers of Christ, we have no other option than to forgive and let God fight on our behalf. Colossians 3:13 says "make allowance for each other's fault, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others". I should also add that if you offend your neighbour be humble enough to ask for forgiveness, but where your neighbour has refuse to ask for forgiveness, you must let go and move on with your life. Don't live each day with baggage of pain and hurt caused by some other persons, who may not even care. Some don't even know that their actions hurt you, some have forgotten they hurt you and some will deliberately ignore the fact that you have been hurt by their actions. Whichever the case, make forgiveness your priority and live happy. 

Finally, make conscious effort to develop a big heart, such that even before you are offended by anyone you are set to forgive. I learnt this in an unusual situation while in secondary school. I did not realise that life is indeed very short, but by the grace of God, I was able to ask for forgiveness from the Senior. She forgave me and we became friends again. After we resumed for another term, I was eager to see my friend, unfortunately the news came that she died during the vacation. I could not believe it, but that was it. I realised life was vanity and the pain and hurt we cling to today do not worth it compare to eternity with God. I decided to be humble at all times to ask for forgiveness, as well as, ready at all times to forgive, for life is  really too short to live in pain and grudge. Can you also decide to forgive that friend, parent, uncle, classmate, lecturer or boss who has deeply hurt you? Can you also decide to have a big heart to forgive as many that has and will offend you?  Make the decision today, it is worth it!!!!