Why Is Asking Forgiveness So Important? - Growing Through God's Word
I think forgiveness is the hardest thing to do. I have been in that situation a few times. I found that when I didn’t forgive, my muscles were tight, sickness invaded my system easier and my bones ached. So much for hurting anyone but myself. When I forgave (this doesn’t mean you have to agree with the person or even like them) the person or situation, I became free.
I am reading the Bible in three years.
Today’s scriptures, to me, focused on forgiveness. Another day I may see something else.
Romans 1:1–7
We are told that we are set apart, called to be saints. To be a saint really means we are holy — because of Christ. Nothing we have done. Paul states this to all of Rome. Everyone can belong to God.
And you also are among those Gentiles who are called to belong to Jesus Christ. To all in Rome who are loved by God and called to be his holy people: (Romans 1:6–7, NIV)
Psalm 51
After we are restored to God, we are expected to tell others. But who are able to come to God? — those with broken spirits and contrite hearts. They have sought forgiveness either from others or from God.
I learned God-worship when my pride was shattered. Heart-shattered lives ready for love don’t for a moment escape God’s notice. (Psalm 51:17, MSG)
“Heart-shattered lives ready for love” — open, and free.
Jonah 3:1–10
Jonah listened to God (finally) and proclaimed the truth to Nineveh, warning of their destruction.
What did the Ninevites do?
All the people and the king fasted. They wore sackcloth — a sign of repentance. They prayed to God to forgive them. And they gave up their evil way.
Result?
God had compassion and there was no destruction.
God saw what they had done, that they had turned away from their evil lives. He did change his mind about them. What he said he would do to them he didn’t do. (Jonah 3:10, MSG)
After I had read the passages, I wrote my thoughts.
- Obedience to God is important and can change lives.
- God is compassionate.
- God hears people cry out to Him.
- God listens to our hearts.
- True repentance can bring reconciliation with God.
Who are you angry at?
What is there in your heart that might not be pleasing to God?
Search yourselves.
Ask forgiveness.
Kimberly Payne writes about forgiveness.
How many times a day do we need to ask forgiveness?
Once per transaction. Then Jesus covers you.
Thank You Jesus, that You are right here. I don’t need my transgressions to build until I can tell a priest. You are the High Priest that will hear and answer immediately.
I love the verse from Micah. In Micah 6:8
But he’s already made it plain how to live, what to do, what God is looking for in men and women. It’s quite simple: Do what is fair and just to your neighbor, be compassionate and loyal in your love, And don’t take yourself too seriously — take God seriously. (MSG)
He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God. (NIV)
I love The Message: “Take God seriously.”
When I went to God in prayer, this is the poem I heard.
Forgiveness
Anger eats away at our souls
Crusty, hard, judgmental
Warm your hearts
Embrace the compassion of God.
Anger builds walls
Love embraces
Confession breaks down walls
God forgives
Hearts are restored
Healing happens
Life returns
God is connected
©Janis Cox 2020
May I pray for you and me?
Lord, You see inside us. Help us to see what You see so we can confess. Break open our hearts to the truth so we can be healed. We ask forgiveness for …. [fill it in]. Thank You that You hear us. Thanks for reconnecting with us. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
