As God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience. Bear with one another and, if anyone has a complaint against another, forgive each other; just as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in the one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly; teach and admonish one another in all wisdom; and with gratitude in your hearts sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

Colossians 3:12-17

Studies have shown that it is not riches that make people happy, it is friends and forgiveness. The ability to forgive others is the trait most strongly linked to happiness, and it is probably the hardest to come by. An unforgiving spirit is often the last emotional fortress we yield to the power of God. Even as Christians, we may cling to anger and bitterness, feeling that those who have wronged us should suffer for their offenses.

Forgiveness is God’s command to us and is part of a life of love, peace, thankfulness, and praise. Freely we have been forgiven; let us freely forgive.

When it seems you can’t forgive,

remember how much you have been forgiven.

Our Daily Bread – February 2, 2004