This world is in chaos. What was wrong is now right; what was once unheard of is now commonplace. It seems hate and unforgiveness has seeped into every corner of our society. But as Christians we are not to hate nor hold forgiveness back to those who have hurt us by their actions or words.

What does it mean to truly forgive? In our hurt and anger, we tend to hold on to the hurt as if it were a talisman able to fend off any forgiveness we might give. And what good does that do anyone? It only hurts the one who will not forgive.

The truth is, we can never understand the fullness of Christ’s sacrifice and forgiveness until we fully and completely forgive our fellow man. It doesn’t mean that we agree with their opinions or actions, but we can let go of the hurt and pain in our heart. There are times when the hurt is so deep it takes time to fully let go and forgive. But we cannot hold on to our anger and refuse to forgive. Jesus said in Matthew 5:15 "But if you refuse to forgive others, your Father will not forgive your sins." (NLT) We forget that we hurt others and we want forgiveness. All our thoughts center on the one who wronged us in some way. If we withhold forgiveness, it only hurts ourselves and our walk with God.

It’s not easy to forgive; but we must do so. If Jesus could forgive the one who nailed Him to a cross, how can we refuse to withhold forgiveness from our fellow man?