In our last exercise, we introduced a theme – “Steps to Inexplicable Victory”. So far we have seen the place of the first fruits principle in delivering success to the saint, and the power of fasting to create wealth in all ramifications of life.
Today, we shall look at the irreplaceable place of forgiveness in the enjoyment of Steps to Inexplicable Victory.
Topic: THE FORGIVENESS FACTOR
Subtexts: Pro.11:17’ Matt.18:15-35; Mk.11:23-26
A ‘factor’ is a circumstance, fact or influence that contributes to a result. The place of forgiveness cannot be overemphasized in the kingdom of God on earth. We dwell in an imperfect world where offences are bound to occur, and it is the prerogative of the believer to ensure that no offence sticks to his heart (cons. Matt.18:7,15; Rom.14:13).
The wounded heart can be very deadly (Pro.18:14,19; cp. 2Sam.13:23-29). It must be noted that unforgiveness carries a tremendous negative energy that transcends all planes of human existence viz spirit, soul and physical body. It pollutes the spirit realm; chokes off joy and breeds depression, worry, personal relational conflicts; elevates blood pressure, decreases immune response, increases incidence of cancer. The incontestable place of forgiveness can be seen in the Lord’s injunction on forgiveness while exposing the incredible power of faith (Mk.11;23-26; cons Matt.6:12); and as among His last words at the cross of Calvary (Lk.23:34; cp. Acts 7:60).
We shall look at (A) Description of Forgiveness (B) Dwelling in Habitual Forgiveness
- DESCRIPTION OF FORGIVENESS
‘Forgive’ was translated from the Greek word Aphiemi which means ‘To send forth’,’ To let go’, ‘To give up a debt’, ‘keep no longer’, ‘lay aside’, ‘yield up’. So forgiveness is a state of “aphiemi”….
Wikipedia: Forgiveness in the psychological sense is the intentional and voluntary process by which one who may initially feel victimized undergoes a change in feelings and attitude regarding a given offence, and overcomes negative emotions such as resentment and vengeance
Forgiveness is about making the situation as if the offence never occurred. Letting go the anger and resentment. However, it is not just about abandoning resentment or possessing positive feelings or letting time heal the wound, accepting what happened, justification, reconciliation, tolerance, etc. Forgiveness is not erasing the past or forgetting what happened but rather letting go of the resentment and pain, and choosing to learn from the incident and moving on with life. True forgiveness restores fellowship with the offender and creates a new beginning in the works: all penalties and prior offences are expunged.
Forgiveness is in the interest of the expresser, as an angry man is sick and one in resentment is stuck in the prison of his past. (cons. Pro.11:17; Jn.8:32).
- DWELLING IN HABITUAL FORGIVENESS
- Know what forgiveness is, and the necessity (Jn.8:32)
- Acknowledge the need in your life to do so – Don’t be an ostrich (Jn.9: 41)
- Address your pain/offence (Pro.28:13)
- Empathize with the offender, considering how you would have loved to be treated (Matt.7:12).
- Appreciate the service of the ‘injury’ (Rom.8:28).
- Excuse the offender as the Lord Jesus taught (Lk.23:34; Acts 7:60).
- Consider that your act of mercy to offenders determines yours divine forgiveness (Matt.6:12).
There are earthly rewards for forgiveness. Apart from letting go of a painful past, there are health benefits like aiding to overcome feeling of depression, anxiety, rage and personal relational conflict; lowering of heart rate and blood pressure, and overall stress relief; diminishing the experience of stress and restoring positive thoughts, feelings and behaviour.
Dwelling in the habit will definitely launch one into ceaseless episodes of joy.