Topic: Simply Forgive [Friday July 21, 2017]
Text: Luke 17:1-10
Key Verse: “Take heed to yourselves: If thy brother trespass against thee, rebuke him; and if he repent, forgive him” (Luke 17:3).
Gregory Glenn Biggs, 37, lost his life in a bizarre and cruel way at the hands of an intoxicated driver named Chante Jawan Mallard. The accident found Biggs lodged in the windshield of Mallard’s car, who then proceeded to drive to her house, park the car in the garage, and left the man in the garage to slowly die.
Medical examiners found that, if Biggs had received medical attention, he would have survived. As outrageous as this true story is, it is even more outrageous that someone would forgive such actions. But, that is exactly what Brandon Biggs, Gregory Biggs’ son, did for Mallard. This is the height of offence – to kill another. It is also the height of love – to forgive. One teaching we have heard before, but which we are prone to forget, is the message on forgiveness.
Being humans, fellow human beings are liable to offend us. That is why Jesus states in the text that offences will come. When they do, He admonishes the offended to forgive the offender and not to keep a record of the wrongs. Generally, forgiveness is a decision to let go of resentment and thoughts of revenge. The act that hurt or offended you, might always remain a part of your life, but forgiveness can lessen its grip on, and help you focus on other more positive parts of your life.
Nearly everyone has been hurt by the actions or words of another. Perhaps your mother criticised your parenting skills, your colleague sabotaged a project or your partner spoke some unkind words in a moment of anger. These wounds can leave you with lasting feelings of anger, bitterness or even vengeance. If you do not learn to forgive, you might be the one who pays most dearly with emotional and attendant health issues, as it has been proven that most mental and physical health challenges are results of unforgiveness.
Thought for the day: Forgiveness begets physical, emotional and spiritual well-being.
Bible Reading in one Year: Exodus 17-19
DCLM Daily Manna was written by Pastor William Folorunso Kumuyi; is the founder and General Superintendent of the Deeper Life Bible Church situated at KM 42 on the busy Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, Nigeria.
