We saw last time that God's Word is clear that when one accepts God's forgiveness for sin, a burden is lifted, and a once troubled life becomes less stressful; especially when thinking about God's eternal salvation, unconditional forgiveness, and heaven, the home for the child of God. Yet, in this life we daily struggle between the choice of forgiving or unforgiving. Should I forgive my father for what he did to me as a child? Should I forgive the school bully? What about forgiving the co-worker who lied about me in order to take my promotion? Life is filled with opportunities to either forgive or to choose to carry an unforgiving heart; and these moments make their selves known in every relationship we have. Today I will speak about forgiving family members.
Our example in Scripture is Joseph. In Genesis 45:4-8 & 50:15-21, we see what it truly means to forgive. Joseph, a man who had plenty of reason to hate his family and even seek revenge for the way his brothers treated him in his teenage years. Imaged being hated, plotted against, beaten and threatened, and finally sold into slavery by your own flesh and blood. Now image years later, having those same family members at your mercy, how would you respond. Well, a Christian is called to forgive as Christ forgave our wicked acts toward Him. If you have been hurt by a family member, the question is "How do I truly know that I have forgiven ______?" The answer is seen from the life of Joseph. Seventeen years have passed been Genesis 45 and 50, the only difference is that their father Jacob, is dead. The brothers are scared to death that Joseph will now seek revenge, and yet he does not, why, because he truly forgave them from his heart over 17 years ago. Notice these 4 points about forgiveness (these apply to any relationship). You know you truly have forgiven when: First, you react with sorrow when your loved ones hurt (50:15-17). Second, you refuse to play God and take revenge (50:19). Third, you recognize God's purpose for your life in all the pain (50:20). Fourth, you respond with compassion toward those who hurt you (50:21). If you can answer in the affirmative on all four, then you have truly forgiven that one who who truly brought hurt upon you. Notice, you will not completely forget the pain and hurt, but in only God's strength you can overcome it. God has promised to use the event to make you stronger for His glory. Yes, it takes time, but when you choose forgiveness, in time you will be able to see that God was in it all, and that promise alone relieves stress. Well, until next time keep walking close to Christ.
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