In our past three posts we have been digging into forgiveness, what it is and what it isn’t. So here are some tips on how to forgive…
Forbid recurring thoughts of the wrongs done to enter your mind. Stop them as soon as they occur. If ever there comes a time when old thoughts of un-forgiveness rise up within you, say by faith, “No, I forgive that person. I bless them. I refuse to focus on those thoughts.” And keep on forgiving. By the power of the Holy Spirit you will find that forgiveness becomes the “normal” lifestyle of an overcoming Christian!
Overcome the temptation to bring up the matter again.
Repeat scripture in your mind and allow God’s perspective to change your perspective you can say things like “Love covers this wrong. Lord may I be an expression of love. I reflect your love.” So if you are struggling to forgive someone, begin reading these scriptures out loud.
Ephesians 4:32: Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.
Mark 11:25: But when you are praying, first forgive anyone you are holding a grudge against, so that your Father in heaven will forgive your sins, too.
Matthew 18:21-22: Then Peter came to him and asked, “Lord, how often should I forgive someone who sins against me? Seven times?” “No, not seven times,” Jesus replied, “but seventy times seven!”
Colossians 3:13: Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others.
John 13:34: So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other.
Give the situation to God. Jesus understands how much you’ve been wronged.
Intercede on behalf of your offender. Jesus said for us to pray for those who spitefully use us and persecute us.
Value what you can give rather than what you can receive.
Extend grace, mercy and forgiveness. Forgiveness is a direct expression of both God’s grace and God’s mercy
