Find Hope in God's Unfailing LoveNäide

Forgiven People Forgive Others

“Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others.” Colossians 3:13 (NLT)

Many people think God carries grudges. They think he’s up in heaven, waiting to condemn them for anything they do wrong. Here’s what God is really like: “I am the God who forgives your sins, and I do this because of who I am. I will not hold your sins against you” (Isaiah 43:25 GNT).

Even before the world was made, God had a plan that through Christ, you would have a way to have your sins forgiven and a home in heaven. He knows every wrong thing you’ve ever done and every wrong thing you’re ever going to do. None of it surprises him!

That’s why Paul could say this: “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” (Romans 8:1 NIV). Condemnation is gone because of what Jesus Christ did for us—that means unconditional and complete forgiveness in all of our lives. What a relief! You are forgiven if you accept that gift of salvation from Jesus.

Once you understand the loving heart God has towards you, you can see the forgiveness that only he can give. And when you experience that forgiveness, you are empowered and strengthened to forgive other people.