Modern Disciple Magazine for Men (MDM4M), published in Canada
Tuesday, January 6th, 2009 | MAGAZINE |
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So,
we're commanded to forgive one another. I think, though,
that it goes even further than that. "Let this mind be
in you which was also in Christ Jesus..." - Philippians
2:5. What's up with that? Well, without getting into all
the theology of it (which, by the way I highly recommend
you do) just think of how Jesus acted and reacted to
those around Him. He was gentle when He needed to be,
forgiving and loving, but firm, very outspoken and
straightforward when the situation called for it. I
think, though, that He had the right idea about how to
act. He was humble. Actually that group of verses states
that He humbled Himself twice. "But made himself of no
reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and
was made in the likeness of men" and again "he humbled
himself, and became obedient to death, even the death of
the cross." - Philippians 2:7, 8. It's hard to be unforgiving when you're humble, not like I'd know. I definitely have a hard time with that one. It's totally contrary to my nature to be humble. But I need to be. If you're humble, and not proud, how can anyone offend you? Certainly you can still be 'offended' by sin and injustice, but no one will be able to offend you by cutting you off in traffic, or by cutting in line to get tickets. It just won't be able to happen, especially if we think like the scriptures command us to. "Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others." Philippians 2:4 |
Okay,
I think I've preached enough already. Anyway, you get
the point I'm trying to make. Just forgive. That's it.
It's hard, yes, but it's commanded. Don't let the stupid
things people do to you (or you to them) get you into an
unforgiving state of mind. Just remember the big picture:
if they're your brothers or sisters in Christ, be loving,
forgiving, and restore that lost fellowship with them
right away. If they're not in the family of God yet,
show mercy and grace to them. Forgive them and this will
open your heart and mind to the Holy Spirit's working
through you. For further study read: Phillipians 2; Matthew 6. Justin Taylor Arts & Media Editor |