Freedom in Forgiveness

There are several stories in the Bible that tell us when God’s people obey Him, they are in better physical and emotional shape. Remember, Daniel and his friends refuse to eat the rich food sent by the king. After several weeks of their own diet, they emerged healthier than other young men in the Babylonian kingdom. So, too, do we learn that an attitude of forgiveness leads to peace. In Matthew 18:21–22, we read, “‘Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother when he sins against me? Up to seven times?’ Jesus answered, ‘I tell you, not seven times, but 77 times.’” When Peter asked this, Jesus was thinking not only of the person who was to be forgiven, but also about the well-being of Peter. We know from Scripture that the hot-tempered Peter learned to temper his temper over time. Notice that the exchange between Peter and Jesus about forgiveness is an ongoing process. It isn’t a one-time deal. Being intentional about the art of practicing forgiveness ensures that we don’t fall back into bad habits. A Journal of Behavioral Medicine study tells us that forgiving someone can reduce feelings of tension, anger, depression, and fatigue. This leads to much better sleep patterns. Another study provides evidence that forgiveness can lower blood pressure significantly, especially among spouses. An article in the Journal of Health Psychology provides a link between much lower stress levels and people who forgive. God knows us in every way. He created us. In Philippians 4:7 we read, “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” This comes in the form of a person who is willing to make a conscious choice to forgive, and let grudges go. The enemy of our souls wants us to hang on to bitterness. The God who created us and loves us wants to see us well, along with those who have hurt us. Healing replicates itself, and it starts with us. Let’s pray. Father, it’s painful to watch someone who’s locked down by unforgiveness. Help us model what it looks like to be healthy and whole when we forgive. In Jesus’ name. Amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world!