Scripture:

“Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” (Romans 12:17-18)

Reading:

Have you struggled with forgiving someone? I certainly have. Feeling overcome with anger because of a misunderstanding, misinformation, or mistreatment is not easy.

Whether valid or not, unchecked anger is destructive. If left ungoverned, you can count on one thing in this broken world – more broken things, including broken relationships.

Freedom from emotional bondage such as anger is possible. God desires to bring peace where there has been sin. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding…” (Proverbs 3:5) Scripture calls us to replace our natural response of anger with forgiveness.

Forgiveness becomes a bit easier when you realize it helps you. Forgiveness frees you from the control of the one who hurt you. It welcomes the love of God to purge your mind and emotions from anger.

“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” (Col. 3:13)

The Lord will deal with all injustice in His time and in His way (Proverbs 15:1). No matter your circumstance, it is never too late to release yourself from the bondage of anger. Your part is to put away anger by surrendering your situation to God and forgive.

Application:

Examine your heart. Do you want to be Christlike?
In prayer, release your rights to be justified and entrust your situation to the Lord. Ask God to empower you to forgive.

Prayer:

Father God, thank You for extending mercy and grace toward me. You faithfully work in my life to transform me to be like Jesus. Please help me to control my anger, bring offenses to You, and be quick to forgive. In Jesus Christ’s name, I pray. Amen.