INTRO:
Of all of the things I struggle with, forgiveness is one of the most difficult. There is a part of me that, when wounded, finds a sense of identity in being a victim. I feel the justice in being angry; I feel like a better person for being on the victim-side of a negative interaction. Maybe you don’t share this struggle with me, but I have a hunch that a lot of you probably do.
The difficult truth is this: forgiveness is difficult. Because of sin it feels unnatural, and it goes against what we might feel inside of ourselves. We have been infinitely forgiven for infinite wrong, and knowing this should incline us toward forgiving our neighbors. It is difficult to have a heart of forgiveness, but it is vital to lead a group and serve well. Let’s read about it.
MONDAY
Scripture: Colossians 3:13
Bearing burdens with one another will, at points, require forgiveness. Why do you think this is?
How does knowing how the Lord forgave you impact how you forgive others?
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TUESDAY
Scripture: Luke 23:34
Can you think of a time someone was actively doing you wrongly? How did this make you feel?
What do you think it says about Jesus that while He was unjustly hanging on the cross, He in that moment chose to forgive His executioners?
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WEDNESDAY
Scripture: James 5:16
We often don’t think or talk about confessing our sins to one another. Why do you think this is?
Do you have people in your life you can confess sin to?
Does the idea of telling other people about what you’re struggling with make you uncomfortable? Why?
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THURSDAY
Scripture: 1 John 1:9
Earlier we read about prayer. Is confessing your sins a normal part of your prayer life?
Take some time and be honest with the Lord. Confess your sins and be encouraged that you are forgiven and He loves you!
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FRIDAY
Scripture: Isaiah 1:18
Friend, be encouraged. In spite of our sin, our God’s heart is loving and gracious toward us. We do not serve a bitter tyrant, but a Father who loves us dearly. You are forgiven and loved, praise God! Spend some time thanking the Lord for this and ask Him to give you the strength to show that same forgiveness and love to others.