Confessions

“There is no peace when two of my followers hold resentment in their heart toward one another.”

Forgiveness is a hard topic. From the outside, most people won’t know your joys and sorrows, the weight you carry, or the struggles you face.

But Jesus knows you completely. He knows every step you’ve taken, and He knows exactly where you are today.

And right there in that spot, He calls you to forgiveness – to give it and to ask for it.

“Father, forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us.” That’s how Jesus taught us to pray. He commands us to forgive one another from the heart.

It’s a high calling – but it’s so important.

In 1 John, we read that God is faithful and just to forgive us our sins when we confess to Him.This is God’s promise to you.

But keep reading the next chapter, and you’ll see what that means for how we ought to treat one another. Love is the key word.

The Chosen’s portrayal of Peter and Matthew’s conflict is a relatable example of how difficult – and how vital – it is to forgive someone who has truly hurt us. Sometimes, every instinct we have seems to shout, “No! I could never forgive them.”

But have you ever experienced what happens when you do forgive? Do you know what it’s like to stop holding the other person as guilty and leave judgment to God? Space opens up. Light enters. Freedom follows.

That doesn’t mean everything is immediately fixed. Trust must be rebuilt, and sometimes in this life things won’t be fully restored. But the sting is gone. You can let go.

Jesus wants you to be free, not bound to what has happened or to what people have done to you. So if you need forgiveness in your life, seek help from someone who can walk with you through that process. You don’t have to do it alone.

Reflection Questions

• How do you understand forgiveness? Have you experienced forgiveness yourself?
• How great is Jesus’ sacrifice and forgiveness to you personally?
• Who is Jesus calling you to forgive?
• From whom do you need to ask forgiveness?
• Is there a step you need to take? Who can help you take it?

Prayer

"Lord, forgiveness is such a difficult topic. I am thankful for the sacrifice You made and for the forgiveness that has become available to me through it. Thank You. Lord, help me in my attitude toward others. Help me to forgive as You have forgiven me. And Lord, I know I can't do this alone - help me. Be near. Hold me close to Your heart. Amen."