Forgiveness is not easy—but it is a choice.
It's a decision we make, not because the other person deserves it, but because we've experienced undeserved mercy ourselves. Forgiveness is one of the clearest ways we reflect the heart of God—who forgave us even when we were His enemies (Romans 5:8,10).
In 2 Samuel 18–19, we see a powerful picture of this kind of forgiveness in the life of David. Despite the betrayal and rebellion of his son Absalom, David's heart breaks at his death. He grieves not like a king over a traitor, but like a father over a lost son. Even after being deeply wronged, David shows mercy to those who cursed him, including Shimei—choosing restoration over revenge.
This kind of forgiveness is radical. But it's also real—and possible when we lean on the mercy God has shown us.
Here are three practical ways to step into forgiveness:
Pray for the person who hurt you – Jesus told us to pray for our enemies (Matthew 5:44), not because it's easy, but because it changes us.
Watch your words – Bitterness flows easily through our mouths. Choose instead to speak grace, even when it's hard (Ephesians 4:29-32).
Remember how much you've been forgiven – Just like David extended mercy, and just like Christ forgave us on the cross, we too are called to forgive (Colossians 3:13).
Forgiveness might cost you your pride—but it frees your heart. Let David's story remind you that mercy is powerful. Let Jesus' sacrifice remind you that love always makes the first move.
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