“If you forgive those who sin against you, your heavenly Father will forgive you. But if you refuse to forgive others, your Father will not forgive your sins."

Matthew 6:14-15 NLT

Have you ever been offended by someone who cut you off in traffic, or a coworker talked about you behind your back? Or a rude comment about your weight or the clothes you were wearing. When these offend occur, we want to get even by inflicting as much offense to them.

But God tells us to forgive. Why? It’s not for the sake of the other person or people. God wants us to forgive so we can be forgiven.

That’s right—God can forgive us when we have forgiven those who have offended or hurt us. It is only when we have a forgiving heart that we can freely receive God’s forgiveness and the joy of His strength.

Withholding forgiveness keeps the anger and resentment in our hearts—pushing God out. When we hold on to these things, they become a bitter and dark poison. This is not what God wants for us. He wants us to let go and allow His love and peace to be within us.

Forgiveness isn’t easy. But God will help you let go of the anger and resentment. Let go and let God in today.