So instead, you ought to forgive and comfort him, so that he will not be overwhelmed by excessive sorrow. Therefore I urge you to reaffirm your love for him. – 2 Corinthians 2:7-8
How far are you willing to go with forgiveness?
When someone wrongs us or causes us pain, we know God calls us to forgive. Scripture reminds us to forgive others in the same way that He has forgiven us. Sometimes this is difficult, but when we turn to God, He places the strength of forgiveness in our hearts.
Forgiveness That Keeps Going
God’s desire for us is not only to forgive but also to keep moving forward in love. Forgiveness is often unseen, a quiet release of hurt and resentment within our hearts. Yet comfort and encouragement cannot remain hidden. They require action. We are called to go beyond simply forgiving, to reach out and show love in tangible ways.
The Example of God’s Forgiveness
God never stops at forgiveness. His forgiveness always flows into comfort, encouragement, and hope. It continues on and on, becoming an expression of His overwhelming love for us. This is the pattern He has set for us to follow. Forgiveness is the beginning, but love compels us to take the next steps of building up, encouraging, and caring for others.
Living Out Forgiveness
True forgiveness is more than letting go of hurt. It is choosing to act in kindness, to comfort the one who has wronged us, and to encourage them in faith and life. When we forgive and then live out that forgiveness, we reflect the heart of God to the world. His love is never halfway, and ours should not be either.