The Bible says: ‘Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behaviour. Instead, be kind to each other, tender-hearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you’ (vv. 31-32 NLT). Are you struggling to forgive someone? Here’s a prayer: ‘Lord, I praise You for forgiving me and washing my sins away. Please show me anything I need to confess to You today so that I can bring it to You and be cleansed and set free, especially any place in my heart where I haven’t forgiven someone. I know how subtly resentment and bitterness can build up and affect my prayers. I see now that my lack of forgiveness towards others can keep me from experiencing Your forgiveness (see Mark 11:25). To say that I need Your help to forgive others the way You have always been forgiving towards me is a huge understatement. You forgave the unforgivable on the cross. I’ve realised that I can’t forgive on my own. Remind me that I can’t make my forgiveness conditional or only give it when I think people deserve it. Help me keep the focus of my heart on becoming more like You. Give me grace to forgive, and not hold forgiveness back until the other person says or does what I think they should. Take away any lingering anger, bitterness, or resentment in my heart. Pour out Your Spirit on me and cleanse me of everything that’s not from You. Help me to walk in the forgiveness You’ve given me and to extend it to others. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.’
