Forgiveness

“If your enemies are hungry, give them something to eat. If they are thirsty, give them some water. This will make them feel the burning pain of shame, and the Lord will reward you for being good to them.” Proverbs 25:21-22 (ERV) Isn’t that something? When you show grace and mercy to your enemies, they will feel the burning pain of shame. Ouch! Other translations say, “You heap burning coals on their head.” When you show your enemies love, they will feel ashamed for how they have treated you. I know very well what that means. I learned this lesson […]

“Repay no one evil for evil but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, ‘Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.’” Romans 12:17-19 (ESV) A good word about revenge: the message here is, “Do not seek retribution.” That is the way of the world. How many of the world’s wars would cease if people forgave each other? No forgiveness — no peace. In every […]

“Honor your father and your mother that your days may be long upon the land.” Exodus 20:12 (NKJV) Rita dials. The telephone rings . . . and rings. She is about to hang up when Sandy, her sister, answers. “Rita, if it’s about Mama, I’m on my way to the mall.” “I have a doctor’s appointment,” replies Rita, “and I can’t leave Mama by herself that long.” “Then, get a sitter,” says Sandy. “I couldn’t find anybody. She’s our mama, Sandy!” “And was never a good one,” Sandy replies. “Remember all those peas and rice dinners we were raised on? […]

“Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” Ephesians 4:31,32 (NIV) As a young man I remember feeling angry that I was even created. I was angry for even being alive on this dark, sadistic planet. How could my parents do this to me, bringing me into this terrible place? Really, my anger was a form of unforgiveness, and I hid it and held onto it for a very long time. It was only […]

“You shall not steal, nor deal falsely, nor lie to one another.” Leviticus 19:11 (NKJV) Lying — saying things that aren’t true — is wrong, according to the Bible. But is there such a thing as “little white lies” . . . untruths that don’t cause real harm to others? They may not hurt anyone, per se; however, if uncovered, they could cause dire consequences. Leanna Bennett never finished high school and works as a nanny to help her mom survive after her father walked out on them. Her job eases their condition, but attractive Leanna has always wanted more. […]