Forgiveness

Two days in June which are easily recognized and we celebrate nationally are Flag Day (June 14) and Father’s Day (June 18). However, other special days that are not so familiar are: National Donut Day, June 2; Repeat Day, June 3; Eat Your Vegetables Day, June 17; and Ice Cream Soda Day, June 20. One other interesting special day in June is National Forgiveness Day, June 26. Forgiveness is an action of one person to let go of anger they have toward someone who has wronged them. The Bible tells us that forgiveness is important and it identifies two different kinds – personal forgiveness, and forgiveness of others.

1)    Personal Forgiveness.  Scripture says, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9). Think about the aspects of personal forgiveness which this verse identifies.

a)    Timing.  There is no specific day attached to God’s forgiveness – “If we … he will.” God is ready to forgive us any day. All we need to do is to come to Him.

b)    Condition.  The condition for forgiveness is confession – “If we confess.” We simply need to agree with God about what we have done.

c)     Faithfulness.  Personal forgiveness is not based on what we have done, but on God’s faithfulness – “he is faithful.”   God is trustworthy and will always keep his promises. “Know therefore that the LORD your God is God; he is the faithful God, keeping his covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love him and keep his commands” (Deuteronomy 7:9).

d)    Confidence.  “He … will forgive us.” We can be certain that God will forgive us because He says that He will and He always means what He says.

e)     Forgiveness and Cleansing.  God does double work because he will not only “forgive us” but He will “purify us” at the same time. Only He can do both things; we can do neither.

 2)    Forgiveness of Others.  Scripture is clear when it says, “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you” (Ephesians 4:32). Notice the specifics of this verse. 

a)    Kindness – “Be kind.” This is a gentle action recognizing that a person cares.

b)    Compassion – “And compassionate.” This is a deep feeling for someone who is hurting.

c)     Forgiveness – “Forgiving each other.” This is letting go of resentment to someone who has wronged you.

d)    Personal Example – “As in Christ God forgave you.” Our Lord set an example of forgiveness which we need to follow.

How should a person respond to forgiveness?  First, personally receive God’s forgiveness by coming to Him to confess sin and receive cleansing.  Second, forgive people whom God prompts you to pardon.