What does forgiveness look like? Is it a single act or a process? Do we wait until we feel ready to forgive? Do we require the other person to repent, or is forgiveness personal and internal, something we do for ourselves? If we forgive, does that mean we must immediately return to a persistently abusive relationship? These and a host of other practical questions require careful answers.
It has been said that we are never more like God than when we forgive. If this is true, then it is not enough just to go through the motions. We must engage ourselves in the task of forgiveness with the same tenacity and the same priorities that God Himself exhibits.
In our own strength, real forgiveness is likely impossible. It is very hard to forgive, especially if we intend to pattern our forgiveness after God’s model. The basis for practicing this difficult but meaningful approach to forgiveness, however, can be found in a value system born in the pages of the Bible. These values give us a place to begin.
Forgiveness always begins in the heart of God. He is the ultimate example of what it means to move beyond vengeance toward the one guilty of causing harm. It is God who takes the initiative to remove debts that are no longer owed.
In order to truly forgive another person in a way that pleases and honors God, we must identify with Christ and His forgiveness, be motivated by His love, and be willing to follow His model of self-sacrifice.
