Father, forgive us

As Christians, we have been given the greatest gift of love and forgiveness. So why do we have such a hard time forgiving others, especially other Christians? By letting hurt feelings get in the way a restored relationship, we let unforgiveness fester in our heart till its as black as a smokers lung. Sadly I am a perfect example of that, I absolutely despise being put down to make someone else look good, so when it happens, I find myself disliking whoever it was that made me feel inadequate and it's very hard for me to forgive them. Its easier to feel anger than hurt. For me anger is a way to keep from being hurt, someone says something mean, and my way of escaping hurt is to be mad. Anger coupled with hurt feelings sows the seeds of unforgiveness faster than you can uproot them. Forgiveness is a huge part of our lives. It is so important to God that He says if we don't forgive others He will not forgive us.

Matthew 6:14-15

14. For if you forgive men when they sin against you,

your heavenly Father will also forgive you.

15. But if you do not forgive men their sins,

your Father will not forgive your sins.

We are so consumed with ourselves and how we feel that we can't see beyond our own hurt to understand the healing power of forgiveness. While on the cross Jesus cried "Father, forgive them." My prayer, "Father, forgive us." For our unforgiving hearts, and the pride that keeps us from seeing our desperate need. Forgiveness that flows as freely as the love of our Father. Forgiving others so we in turn can be forgiven. Father, forgive us.