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Forgiveness: We all need it, most of us desire it, relatively few of us practice it recognizably with any regularity, and nobody but God fully understands it. Books have been written about it—mostly about the practical benefits of it. A book which seemed to make a significant impression on a recent generation was titled The Freedom of Forgiveness; and the great freedom which flows from forgiveness is indeed wonderful beyond words. But far greater still is the eternal fragrance of forgiveness.
What Forgiveness Is
Forgiveness is a divine measure of our character. Of the worst people in the worst circumstances, Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” There never was a more magnificent display of forgiveness (and of the greatness of our Lord’s character) than that of the Son of God on Calvary’s cruel cross.
Forgiveness is a choice. It is not a matter of feelings. Feelings change and always will change down here. Forgiveness is a deliberate choice.
Forgiveness is strength. The world sees forgiveness as weakness. But forgiveness is an expression of strength—because it is an act of obedience, commanded by Christ and supported by God.
Forgiveness is a double blessing. It certainly blesses the receiver, but it also blesses the giver, because it is not possible to give a blessing without ultimately receiving a blessing in return. Blessing is God’s principal pleasure; and He sees to it that it is reciprocal.
Forgiveness is a timely and timeless gift (value directly related to cost), an act of grace, and an expression of love. It is neither denial nor indifference. It is the epitome of “speaking the truth in love.”
What Forgiveness Does
Forgiveness places a higher value on the offender than on (the feelings of) the offended.
Forgiveness places a higher value on the relationship than on (the wound of) the offense.
In the character of love, forgive-ness patiently waits to quietly heal.
Forgiveness glorifies God by yielding to Him what is His by right and decree: “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay.” Romans 12:19. It is His honor to be the true Reckoner and Rewarder.
Forgiveness buries the past and revives the future. But those who lack faith find more security in living in their past than in investing in their future.
How Forgiveness Is Expressed by the Giver
The forgiver willingly accepts the place of the victim rather than that of the judge and then deliberately adopts the attitude of a victor—thereby becoming a deliverer rather than a condemner.
It is in the book of the Bible where the highest Christian truth is found that this most practical exhortation is found: “And be ye kind, one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you. Ephesians 4:32
There is a moral order here, and a moral implication. If I am not forgiving, it is because I am not kind and I am not tenderhearted. If I have personally understood and have in any measure appreciated God’s great forgiveness and its high cost to Him, certainly I ought to be able to personally express to another something of the kindness and tender-heartedness which God has shown to me. Am I forgiving?
How Forgiveness Is Enjoyed by the Receiver
The law condemns, but grace humbles. Think now, who gently changed your nappy so many times without beating you for soiling it? Has God shown you less forbearance? Do you know His forgiveness? You can, and you should. No forgiveness is of any lasting benefit to you if you have not received it from God Himself as well. Having been once forgiven by Him, it is much easier (in fact, as natural to the new life as sin is to the old) to forgive others—and, having been forgiven, it is expected of us. We who have been so guilty and so richly forgiven have no right to hold any offense personally unforgiven, and properly have no desire to speak of any offense already forgiven.
Who Appreciates Forgiveness Most?
God does! He has an infinite capacity for appreciation of what reflects His own character. Our appreciation of forgiveness increases as we receive it and give it. God’s unconditional and infinite forgiveness will ultimately humble us absolutely and forever.
Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children; and walk in love as Christ also hath loved us and hath given Himself for us as an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savor. Ephesians 5:1-2.
Forgiveness is so fragrant to God!
For Further Consideration:
The purpose of this article is simply “to stir you up by putting you in remembrance” (2 Peter 1:13). Forgive-ness is a great and wonderful subject, worthy of much better understanding and more meditation. Many years ago, George Cutting wrote a very helpful little booklet titled, “Forgiveness in Its Three Aspects” (BTP #1738). You are invited to write and request a free copy of that booklet. If forgiveness seems impossible, ask for a free copy of “Breaking the Bondage of Bitterness” (BTP #5322).
JAK