When It Is Difficult to ForgiveSample

Day 5: Seeing what God sees

Have you ever thought about why people do what they do? When we are on the receiving end of someone’s anger, animosity or plain violence, we are so overwhelmed that we cannot see through their motivations.

Reality is, every one of us behaves the way we do because of something that has happened to us, something that has formed our worldview, our personal view, or our behaviour. Think about how true this is for yourself! We all want others to have mercy on us because of what we have endured. Likewise, when we begin to view others through God’s eyes, we realise that ‘hurting people’ hurt other people. Understanding this helps us extend grace. It does not make what they do ‘right’, but it does make it ‘understandable’.

Testimony:
Mark was furious when his boss unfairly fired him. But after learning about his boss’s struggles with trusting people, Mark started to pray for his boss. As he did this, his resentment started to fade, and he started to feel compassion for him instead. Over time, God blessed Mark with an even better job and a softened heart.

Prayer:
Father, help me to see others the way You see them. Give me a heart of compassion and grace. Let me love as You love. In Jesus’ name, Amen.