God’s forgiveness extends to the worst offenders and to anyone who wishes to receive it—not because of who we are, but because of who He is. — Charles Swindoll
People have a hard time extending forgiveness toward others. We hold hostage the forgiveness that we should offer someone else. Not only that, but we beat ourselves up over our poor choices and even struggle to accept that we can be forgiven.
God’s unexplainable love for us was displayed for us by His selfless act of sending His Son to earth. Jesus willingly left the comforts of heaven, next to His Father, in order to pay the most severe penalty for you and for me. He died on a cross and thankfully, rose from the grave on the third day. His sacrifice redeemed us and paid for any sin: past, present, or future. Because of God’s love for us, we are forgiven. Let that sink in: we are forgiven.
Not because we are good but because He is good.
Not because we deserve it but because Jesus paid for our sins.
In addition to receiving God’s forgiveness, we are free from condemnation. What that means is that God does not condemn us in any way once we become Christ followers. The blaming voices we hear from others as well as our spiritual enemy hold no power—or they shouldn’t. We can't let any accusation keep us from living the lives God has given us. As the Message version of Romans 8:1 says, “we no longer have to live under a continuous, low-lying black cloud.”
So, let’s try something different when we are bombarded with condemning thoughts. Let’s recognize them, and speak truth over our minds. Yes, we have all made mistakes and have not lived up to God’s standard. But, God lavishes us daily with His perfect mercy and grace. Because of that, we are forgiven and free from condemnation.
“In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace”
Ephesians 1:7
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