Forgiveness Is FreedomSample

### Perspective Shift Surprisingly, those we love the most often hurt us the most. In Scripture, we read how just five days before His crucifixion, Jesus gloriously entered the city of Jerusalem riding a donkey and the crowd worshiping Him. The streets were lined with people laying down palm branches heralding the King of the Jews. Even the disciples vowed to follow Him regardless of the cost. However, in Jesus’ most painful moment, those closest to Him turned away as the Romans brutally beat and crucified Him. How did Jesus find it in His heart to forgive? He did it by looking at His pain from a different perspective. Hebrews 12:2 tells us Jesus endured the cross because of what He knew was waiting on the other side. Instead of the hurt and betrayal He experienced, Jesus focused on the redemption He knew His death would purchase for us. Colossians 3:13 tells us we must forgive as Christ forgave us. We will all experience hurt and disappointment in life. Offense will come at the hands of an enemy or a friend—but it is going to come. If we think back on the times God forgave us when we hurt and sinned against Him or someone else, it is much easier for us to forgive those who sin against us. Instead of holding onto offense, focus on how Christ has forgiven you. Choose to forgive the way Christ has forgiven you. Instead of becoming bitter, look at what is on the other side—good news! God is going to bring healing and draw you closer to Him on the other side of your hurt. As you engage with God’s word: ● What is God saying to you? ● What does it mean to you? ● What action step do you need to take? After you reflect on these questions, bring everything to God in prayer.