There are times when we find it difficult to forgive. How can you forgive a spouse who has betrayed you or someone who has taken advantage of you?
Proverbs 16:6
“By mercy and truth iniquity is purged: And by the fear of the Lord men depart from evil.”
We learn three things from this verse that can purge or remove iniquity or sin. They are mercy, truth and the fear of the Lord. Let’s examine them.
- Mercy.
You can choose to be merciful to people who have wronged you. This is not because they deserve it, but because you have decided to. You can choose to be merciful.
- Truth.
God’s word can inspire you to be merciful.
“Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.” Matt 5:7.
Enlightened self-interest can make you merciful.
When you need mercy, you can remind God of when you showed mercy and ask Him to show you mercy.
- The Fear of the Lord
Jesus told a story of a servant who refused to forgive although he had been forgiven by his master. He concluded by saying he will be handed over to the tormentors.
Matthew 18:34
“In anger his master handed him over to the jailers to be tortured, until he should pay back all he owed.”
The fear of being tormented if you are unmerciful is enough reason to make you forgive!
Kakra Baiden
