| Colossians 3:13 – “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” |
When we say something offensive or hurt someone and we are genuinely sorry and apologize, that is an outward expression of something happening internally. But sometimes we apologize and are not really sorry (I am picturing in my mind past childhood sibling apologies). Sometimes we go through the motions and ask for forgiveness to put on a show but when we are sincere it is truly an outward expression of internal transformation and following God’s commands.
Thank God that when we sin against Him (this sinner does so several times daily) and truly ask for forgiveness, He gives us grace and compassion. He wants us to repent inwardly and return to him when we mess up. Don’t beat yourself up and stagnate in guilt and sorrow, rather accept His grace and love and pray for the will to stay in His will.
Dear Father, thank you for your grace and for taking us back with open arms when we sin against you. Help me to forgive others as you have forgiven each of us. Amen
- Donna Stauber
