The Call to Forgive Like Christ
Be encouraged by today’s Scripture reflection and prayer.
Today's Scripture
Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.
— Colossians 3:13 (KJV)
Reflection
More people, more problems. That’s a phrase I’ve found to be true over the years. People can be tough to deal with sometimes. We all think differently, feel differently, and react in our own way. Some are more sensitive to words. Others are more affected by actions. What bothers me might not bother you. And what offends you might not even register with me.
But here’s the truth. No matter how different we are, our behavior should reflect Jesus.
We sometimes hold on to traits that don’t honor God. We say things like, “This is just how I was raised,” or, “This is part of my culture,” or even, “God made me this way.” But we are new creatures in Christ. That means we’re no longer ruled by the old ways. We are called to take on His character.
That includes how we treat people, especially when they hurt or disappoint us.
The Word tells us to forgive as Christ forgave us. That’s not easy. But it is necessary. Have you ever been short with someone? A little irritable? Maybe you snapped or said something you regret. I know I have. Whether we meant to or not, we’ve all wronged others in some way. That’s why it’s so important to forgive. We’ve needed it ourselves.
It’s always easier to see what others have done to us than to face what we’ve done to others. But forgiveness means shining the light on ourselves too. Christ didn’t wait until we got it all right. He forgave us while we were still a mess. He chose mercy.
When we follow Him, we choose the same. Forgiveness doesn’t make what happened okay. But it does release us from carrying it. And it helps others grow too. Sometimes people don’t even realize they’ve caused pain. Just like we’ve needed time and grace to grow, others do too.
Christ's forgiveness was full, complete, and undeserved. That’s the kind of heart we’re called to have.
Before You Go
Forgiveness is powerful. It reflects the heart of Christ and shows the world what mercy really looks like. When we forgive, we are living out the love and grace that God has shown us.
It also builds unity among believers. We can’t grow together in Christ if we are divided by offense. Bitterness creates distance, but forgiveness brings healing. It helps restore relationships and makes space for growth.
We all have moments when we fall short. That’s why grace is so important. When we forgive others, we’re not just moving past something. We’re strengthening the body of Christ. We are choosing peace, love, and the kind of maturity that points others to Jesus.
Let forgiveness become your response, not just a last resort. Let it lead your words, your thoughts, and your relationships. It is one of the clearest ways to walk in step with the heart of God.
Take a moment to reflect:
Is there someone you have struggled to forgive?
Have you asked God to help you let go of bitterness?
Is there anyone you may need to ask forgiveness from today?
What would it look like to reflect Christ in this situation?
Let this be the day you choose to forgive from the heart.
