Summary: “Forgive and forget” is a catchy phrase and may be a good bumper sticker. But, it’s not always that simple. As followers of Jesus, we are commanded to forgive one another, not to forget it. “Just as Christ forgave us, you also forgive,” the Bible says. But, how do we live that way? I think the first step is to come before the Lord and ask Him for the power to forgive. This reminds me of holocaust victim Corrie ten Boom. Years after Corrie’s imprisonment and harsh treatment, she met one of the officers who had abused her. Immediately, she felt bitterness and resentment towards the man who had treated her and her sister so poorly. Corrie wanted to forgive but didn’t know how. As the man approached her, Corrie whispered a prayer. “Lord,” she humbly said, “I can’t forgive him on my own. Give me your power to forgive.” And, God did! As Corrie shook this man’s hand, the bitterness left. She was filled with love and compassion for this miserable man before her. Is there someone in your life that you are trying to forgive but just can’t? Remember, it’s Christ in you that will make forgiveness possible. In our own strength, we can’t do it. But, in His power, we can. Ask the Lord to give you the power to forgive so that you can be free, and can also be effective in reaching your world.
