Good morning! Over the past year we discussed numerous verses and chapters that spoke on forgiveness. The Lord’s forgiveness is that greatest treasure that we will ever receive at know cost. If we think about how much we truly have been forgiven, we can appreciate how much the Lord desires for us to forgive so that we can be set free. I am not exempt from today’s reading as this devotion ministered to me, convicted my heart and has clarified a few areas that I have been praying on. Join me this morning as we read 2 Corinthians, chapter two, verses five through eight, where Paul is instructing on the need for the Corinthian church to forgive.

“⁵ I am not overstating it when I say that the man who caused all the trouble hurt all of you more than he hurt me. ⁶ Most of you opposed him, and that was punishment enough. ⁷ Now, however, it is time to forgive and comfort him. Otherwise he may be overcome by discouragement. ⁸ So I urge you now to reaffirm your love for him.” – 2 Corinthians 2:5-8 NLT

While this chapter never clarifies which man Paul is referring to, we know Paul has come to terms with what transpired and the hurt that the man caused the church. He knows the pain that was caused, but Paul is saying that is enough. Sisters and brothers, there is a season/time when people recognize their errors and restoration is necessary. Above all things the Lord’s justice is sufficient and we must put our faith and trust in Him to speak to our hearts when God says enough.

Sisters and brothers, it is so easy to hold a grudge or be angry at someone. It is also easy to say, I will fix them for what they did, but God is calling us beyond that feeling (legitimate or illegitimate). God wants to set us free from pain/anger that we are holding and trust Him to be our defender in the midst of our emotions, fears and anger. God is saying,

• Will you trust Him to give you a heart that forgives?
• Will you allow Him to restore the areas in your life and heart that needs to offer forgiveness?
• Will you allow Him to provide restoration and healing in those areas of your life or with the people who hurt/harmed you?

Sisters and brothers, forgiveness does not mean all deeds will go unpunished, but what is does to your heart and mind when God is at the center – it provides peace that sings and a heart that overflows with compassion and love.

Father God, thank you for your forgiveness and grace. Thank you for not holding a grudge against us when we do or say things that grieve you. Lord, in your mercy hear our prayers today and move within our hearts to forgive as you forgive. Lord, teach us your ways and imprint on hearts your Holy word. Lord, ease any anger that we have in our hearts for our fellow brother and sister in the faith. Lord, release us from anger and grudges that we hold in our hearts that keep us trapped like prisoners. Lord, refine us and purify our hearts to be more loving and compassionate toward others. Lord, give us discernment to establish proper boundaries and be mindful of what you desire to protect us from. Lord, may we align our lives to your will and plan for us. Lord, as we ponder over the things we need to forgive others for, give us strength and the peace of mind to release ourselves and others from our internal prisons that keep us from experiencing in fullness You. Lord, set us free. In Jesus name, amen.

Keep praying! Keep Trusting! Keep believing!

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