Do you often have trouble forgiving people like your parents, siblings, friends, or teachers? Do you find yourself angry with them and thinking of ways to get back at them? When we live with unforgiveness in our heart toward anyone it separates us from God. Jesus says in Luke 6:31 and 32, “Do to others, as you would have them do to you. If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you?”
Later in the chapter Jesus reminds us, “Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful. Do not judge, and you will not be judged.” We have to forgive others just as our Father in heaven has forgiven us from all the stuff we have done wrong. Everyone messes up, but that is why God gives us mercy, compassion, kindness, and forgiveness when we are undeserving.
Jesus then says this, “For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” He allows us to choose if we are going to love those around us who mess up just like we do or if we are going to live angry with people. But the way we treat others will be how he treats us.
Take time today and think of those people you need to forgive. It might be hard at first but pray and ask God to help you forgive them. Once you have forgiven them, go and apologize to that person for being unforgiving. This will allow God to start healing your heart and free you from anger.
