Apologizing And Forgiveness

I’m sorry.
I forgive you.

Two phrases that could very well change the world. Well, maybe not realign our seasons or put an end to global warming, but could possibly alter the way we, as people, interact with one another. Think of how many relationships YOU have or have had in the past that have vanished, gone away, simply because someone (I’m not saying it was you) was unwilling to apologize or forgive.

Crazy, right?

I’d be willing to suggest that while you were reading this you’ve already thought 4 or 5 people, friends, family, co-workers, that you don’t speak to or hang around anymore because of the absence of one of these two phrases. Chances are, YOU have a role in the mess. Maybe you said something or did something that you just don’t think was all that bad. OR, on the other hand, they did something or said something to you or someone you love that you think is just horrible and unforgivable.

Jesus prayed, “Forgive us our sins, just as we have forgiven those who have sinned against us,” (Matthew 6:12). Why couldn’t he just leave it at “forgive us our sins”? Wouldn’t that be much easier?

If God forgave you like you forgive others would you be forgiven?

Let go of bitterness.
Let go of resentment.
Let go of anger.
Let go of pride.
Apologize.
Forgive.

Grab a sheet of paper and write down their names. You probably still have his or her phone number. Call them up. Make amends. Do YOUR PART to bring restoration to the relationship.

If you must, stand in front of a mirror and practice saying it…

I’m sorry. I’m sorry. I’m sorry.
I forgive you. I forgive you. I forgive you.

Take off the yoke of unforgiveness and walk around a bit lighter today.