Condition For Forgiveness

You know, sometimes people who seem to be the nicest, in reality are not. While in Argentina, I was using my video camera to shoot some footage down a street when a bus drove by and splashed me. This delightful couple suddenly appeared and came to help me. I had stuff all over the back of my jacket and they were so kind to take napkins and water and try to wash the stuff off.

The couple was very concerned that a visitor from another country was obviously inconvenienced by this mess. I was very touched by their gentle compassion, at least until later on when I realized their concern was all part of an act. They were pickpockets and they got me.

At first, I wanted to be angry but that really doesn’t solve anything. I had to admire the fact that they were very good at their “trade.” Instead of getting upset, I decided the best thing for me to do was to forgive them, forget about the incident and get on with doing the things I needed to do to make the situation right.

Is there somebody in your life whom you are harboring unforgiveness? Forgiving someone requires a decision on your part. We seem to think that when we sin we can confess our sins, repent, continue to not forgive others and still receive Christ’s unconditional forgiveness. There is a stern warning from the Lord regarding not forgiving others and it is found in Matthew 6:14-15:

“For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.”

The next time you pray and ask God for forgiveness for any sins you’ve committed make sure there is no one in your life for whom you are refusing to forgive.

Category: Scripture, South America