Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. Colossians 3:13
Forgiveness is something we all long to receive from those whom we have hurt, but truthfully, it is something we often deny to others who have wounded us in some way. Holding on tightly to grudges, slights, and grievances somehow makes us think we have an upper hand over them. Pride keeps us from apologizing and sincerely expressing sorrow over the wrong (sin) we did.
Just previous to Colossians 3:13, Paul told believers to "clothe yourself with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and purity" (v. 12). These garments that he refers to should be part of your personality making forgiveness easier when dealing with difficult people and situations. Bearing with each other gives opportunities to offer grace and mercy to those who offended you.
In light of what Jesus has forgiven you for, there should be no slowness or hesitation in answering the call to forgive. It is not easy to do, but it is the right thing to do. Instead of playing "old tapes" of the offense, how much better it is to leave it at the foot of the cross and look up to Jesus who suffered and died for your sins. His forgiveness makes it possible for you to extend forgiveness to your offender. After all, it was His love demonstrated there that makes
forgiveness possible. Who do you need to forgive? Ask the Lord to help you forgive as He has done for you.
Written by: Lois Dahlstrom