“And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.” – Mark 11:25
“Love prospers when a fault is forgiven, but dwelling on it separates close friends.” – Proverbs 17:9
This is an update regarding my last year’s devotion to forgiveness. Remember last year, I had a misunderstanding with a close friend and we have been indifferent to one another for a long time. There are days when I cannot face God in prayer and cannot even read His words. He consistently reminded me and even rebuked me with His
Words. Every time I listen to preaching, God would tell me to seek forgiveness and forgive, to seek peace. I have spent sleepless nights trying to convince myself that I have to take the first step to talk to her. I have been praying to God to give me the strength and courage to do it.
There was no effort of reconciliation from both sides until the day of my flight going to the Philippines. I have decided to initiate a conversation with her and that started an open communication between us. It took me four months to realize that I have offended her as well.
Mark 11:25 gave me that strong conviction to seek my friend’s forgiveness for my wrongdoings. Indeed, God will not frustrate us if we continue to pursue righteousness. God will give us the wisdom and courage to do what He commanded us to do.
My relationship with a dear friend will soon come to complete healing. It may be gradual but by the grace and mercy of God, we will be able to achieve it. Proverbs 17:9 reminds us to be like God who covers and forgives our sins, to cherish friendships, and be loyal friends. Let us continue to pursue loving one another unconditionally, for God did the same thing to us
