The choice to show grace instead of letting our emotions dictate our reactions can be hard, but nothing worth doing is ever easy. Grace has the power to transform and change lives…..it’s worth it!
“Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.” Ephesians 4:31-32
When we are easily wounded and hurt by the words and actions of other people, and then choose to nurse those wounds instead of offering forgiveness and grace, we provide the enemy with ample opportunity to plant a root of bitterness in our hearts – a root that’s sure to bear rotten fruit for many years to come.
We’ve forgotten that we are accepted in Him no matter what others think or say. That we, as infinitely worse offenders against Him, have still been the recipients of His grace. And that as His children, becoming more like Him each day, we should extend grace to others.
- Speak words intended to build up, not to tear down.
- Focus on the needs of others, rather than your own.
- Freely forgive.
- Swallow your pride and say, “I’m sorry,” and “I was wrong.”
- Live your life with a goal of “no regrets.”
- Don’t keep score of what is fair.
- Emphasize mercy
