2 Corinthians 2:10-11
“Anyone you forgive, I also forgive. And what I have forgiven, if there was anything to forgive, I have forgiven in the sight of Christ for your sake, in order that Satan might not outwit us. For we are not unaware of his schemes.”
The devil has many tricks in his bag of deception, and unforgiveness is one of them. Constantly he reminds us of the many ways a person has wronged us. And how they should be made to feel guilt and shame. But by casting aside the lies of the enemy and choosing to forgive, we prevent bitterness from taking hold and festering in our spirits. Bitterness only builds a wall between our hearts and God, and gives Satan a foothold in our lives. And worst of all, it can cause us to exhibit behavior that might lead others away from God. In Hebrews 12:15 we are told, “See to it that no one comes short of the grace of God; that no root of bitterness springing up causes trouble, and by it may be defiled.” As followers of Jesus we are to show the grace of God to all we meet. We are His ambassadors in the world. And our lives should be a testimony of the love, grace, and forgiveness of Jesus. One that it is a light to those who would receive it and a condemnation to those who would reject it.
