The Importance of Forgiveness

Throughout the Bible, God has constantly shown His trait of Forgiveness. Jesus preached that forgiveness is very important, but why?

Jesus always taught that forgiveness is one of the most important virtues, and this is shown in the parable of the debts. This part of the parable is a picture of our gracious God. It is entirely within His nature to show such abundant mercy (Matthew 18:21-35).

Another great example is the story of the woman who was caught in adultery (John 8:3-11). However; the most amazing part is verse 10-11 ( Jesus straightened up and asked her, “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?”

“No one, sir,” she said.

“Then neither do I condemn you,”Jesus declared. “Go now and leave your life of sin.”). Jesus demonstrated to us through His daily life, not just His teachings, the way in which we should act towards each other.

The greatest forgiveness of all—is an act of God, by which He releases sinners from judgment, and frees us from the penalty created because of our sins. But forgiveness is also a human act toward one’s fellow human beings. God’s forgiveness, because of the death of Christ in our behalf, is to become an reason for us to forgive others who offend us.

Another major and well known example of forgiveness is when Peter denied Jesus, yet Jesus still forgave him. Jesus was emulating the loving nature of Good and proving that however badly you may think you have sinned, if you truly repent, God will always forgive you. This a comforting fact to know - you have a Father in heaven who is always ready to welcome you home.

However, the Bible says you must forgive before you are forgiven, so any grudges you may hold, you must let go if you want to be forgiven.

For Christians, forgiveness is not an option. It is a requirement. No matter how difficult it may be at times, we are to forgive people and what they do to us. No matter how deeply we have been wronged. It is imperative to remember that no human has offended you the way we have to God.

It has also been scientifically proven that when you forgive someone it is good for your health. For example: improved mental health, less anxiety, stress and hostility, lower blood pressure, fewer symptoms of depression, a stronger immune system and improved heart health.

The benefits of forgiveness are boundless and there is no valid reason or benefit to holding on to your resentment. All that does is allow the enemy to take control of our minds causing us to do things we might regret in the future.

The most famous example of forgiveness is Luke 23:34 - Jesus said,"Father, forgive them. For they don't know what they are doing."

Amen