And be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving one another, just as God also forgave you in Christ. Ephesians 4:32 CSB

Just as the Lord has forgiven you, so you are also to forgive. Colossians 3:13b CSB

This week we are going to talk about forgiveness. Forgiveness is one of the promises that God offers us. When we have done something wrong, we can tell God how sorry we are (that’s called repentance) and then we can ask Him to forgive us for our sin. And because we have faith in God and believe all that Jesus did for us, God forgives us. Just like that! God doesn’t see our sin anymore, He sees us as His beloved children.

And because God has forgiven us, He expects us to also forgive those who wrong us. It’s not always easy but we have a Friend who can help us, Jesus. Let’s look at an example of forgiveness.

Let’s say that you and your best friend have an argument and your friend calls you a mean name and walks away. You’re hurt, you’re mad, and you decide you’re not going to speak to your “ex-friend” anymore. So, after you get home, even though you are still angry, you remember that you are supposed to forgive like God forgives you. What do you do?

You pray. You take your hurt and your anger to Jesus. Maybe you thank Him for forgiving you and tell Him your feelings and that you want to forgive your friend. You choose to forgive just like Jesus chooses to forgive us. Jesus will give you peace for the anger and healing for your hurt. Jesus will be with you and give you the strength to forgive.

This week I want you to choose one person that you have not forgiven. Someone that was mean to you or said something about you that wasn’t true. Talk to your parents and choose to forgive that person. Then talk to Jesus and give him the anger and hurt and, like Jesus, forgive.

Blessings and peace as you learn to forgive others!