THE BIBLE-TEACHING MINISTRY OF CHARLES R. SWINDOLL
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There are times I wonder if I really understand forgiveness and times where I know I don't. For the most part I can tell someone who has done me wrong “I forgive you,” and really mean it. Where I have trouble is when that person has wronged someone I love.
How do I forgive those who walk out on their families? And those people who hurt defenceless children? And what about those who talk maliciously behind others' backs? How am I supposed to just let that go? I know the Bible says keep no record of wrongs, and that revenge is for the Lord alone, but it's really hard to forget about the bad things people have done. And what about the bad things I've done? I know I deserve death for the sins I've committed — how can God possibly forgive me for all the times I've rejected Him? And how can I live in that forgiveness when I can't forget the things I've done?
Our Problem — We live in a fallen world. With the introduction of sin our relationship with God was broken. A sin nature now in all of us means relationships are fragile and easily destroyed. Sinful acts, attitudes, and even just regular events of life can be catalysts for offences requiring forgiveness. God's Answers — God tells us to forgive as He has forgiven us (Eph. 4:32). Before seeking to forgive others, reflect on God's forgiveness of you (Rom. 5:8). To forgive like God means to forgive:
The Solution
By Insight for Living Canada