August 23 “Forgiveness” Ephesians 4:32
Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” (Ephesians 4:32)
In our 21st century culture, it has become popular to be offended by every little thing that happens. We have become so very sensitive to everyone and everything. It appears that “being offended” has become the norm! Sadly, even the church has and is a participate in this insanity! It seems that we are now wearing our feelings on our sleeves and are expecting to be hurt! Our human nature wants to “get even,” and to “teach folks a lesson,” or try to make things unpleasant for those that make things unpleasant for us. Again, in our human nature, we think that getting even will restore our “wholeness!” No wonder, that Evil and Evil Doers, are absolutely opposed to the radical offering of Jesus Christ. Jesus instructs us to have an attitude of forgiveness and to become “Christ-Like,” in all of our encounters. This world, and the Evil that exists, will continue to throw punch after punch, with the express purpose to shake our faith and our commitment to Christ! Being Christ-Like, we have a special anointing that comes from God’s Love and the Precious Shed Blood of Jesus Christ, and the gift, empowers us to Love and to Forgive! Love and Forgiveness are special attributes of the Christian, and we must live out these blessings, in everything that we do! Remember, regardless of what has happened to you, and regardless of who has hurt you, FORGIVENESS is REQUIRED, FORGIVENESS is a MUST, for your GROWTH and your being truly “CHRIST-LIKE!” If you do not FORGIVE others, how can you expect to be FORGIVEN? Stay Strong, Stay Focused…THE BEST IS YET TO BE!