Monday April 3, 2017

 

“Happy are those who are merciful to others” – Jesus

 

Psychologists say that people who practice forgiveness are more emotionally stable, and live longer. Doctors say that people who practice forgiveness live healthier lives. Sociologists say that forgiveness is fundamental to building and rebuilding healthy communities. Philosophers say that forgiveness is a pathway to peace. Religious leaders say that forgiveness is key to a healthy and growing spiritual life. Scientists say that when you do not forgive your body releases stress-causing chemicals. Everyone agrees that forgiveness is a good thing that has a big positive effect on our emotional, physical, and spiritual well- being and in every area of our lives. However, few practice or even understand what forgiveness is.

 

What is forgiveness?

 

In the parable of the unmerciful servant (Matthew 18:21-35) Jesus tells the story of a king who wanted to settle accounts with his servants. One of the servants owed more money than he could possibly pay. Since he was unable to pay his debt the king ordered that the servant along with his wife and children be sold as payment for the debt. The servant however begged the king to be patient saying that he would find a way to pay back his insurmountable debt.

 

Matthew 18:27

The servant’s master took pity on him, canceled the debt and let him go.

 

Practicing Forgiveness

 

In the introduction to this blog, we saw that from psychologists, to sociologists, scientists, to spiritual leaders, everyone agrees that practicing forgiveness is an extremely beneficial exercise. Contrary to popular belief, forgiveness is practiced first and foremost for the benefit of the person forgiving and not for the forgiven. Forgiveness is best practiced quickly, specifically, and constantly.

 

Happiness is your choice. A big part of that choice however is choosing to forgive others. Jesus defines forgiveness as a cancelled debt. If you are going to practice forgiveness you will need to follow the next steps:

 

1. Make a specific list of the people you are angry with.
2. Specifically identify what was taken from you.
3. Cancel the debt (forgive).
4. Pray and watch God heal your heart.