HOW MANY TIMES SHALL I FORGIVE 😞?
In Matthew 18:21-22, Peter asked Jesus a very interesting question. ‘Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Till seven times? Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, until seven times; but until seventy times seven.’
Wow what a question and what an answer. Looking at Peter’s question critically, notice he was not referring to a stranger but someone closer, a brother. But think about it, if you are unable to forgive a brother, how on earth would you ever forgive a stranger. Often times people say it is more hurtful when someone you love and trusts betrays you. It could be your best friend, your parents, siblings, spouse, your manager, or a colleague at work. Each time he or she offends you and apologises, you forgive, but then it happens again and again.
The question is how many times can you tolerate being offended and how many times do you forgive.
Peter suggested SEVEN times, but Jesus quickly corrected him that it’s SEVENTY TIMES SEVEN.
Yeah I know what you are thinking, it will only takes the grace of God to forgive so many times. In closing the chapter, Jesus concluded that if you don’t forgive those who offend you genuinely from your heart, you will also not be forgiven by your heavenly father. We receive forgiveness through the blood of Jesus by faith and not through any works of ours therefore we are also expected to forgive those who offend us.
Unforgiveness is like poison, it hurts, it destroys, it results in bitterness, hatred, broken relationships, divorce, vengeance, murder, etc. Whereas forgiveness brings healing to both parties and promotes love, Psalms 133:1 reads how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity. Paul encourages us in Ephesians 4:2b, to be patient with each other, making allowance for each other’s faults because of love.
Are you struggling to forgive someone, listen it’s not worth it carrying all that pain and resentment. The Lord paid the price for your past, present, and future offences against Him and he wants you to forgive as well. I encourage you to speak to the Lord right now. Pour out your heart, and explain to him how you feel. Ask him to heal you and give you grace to forgive in Jesus name.
With Love,
Elizabeth/ Founder
