“And whenever you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against anyone, so that your Father who is in heaven will also forgive you for your offenses” (Mark 11:25, New American Standard Bible).

Have you ever had a day when prayer seemed impossible because you were angry at somebody? Maybe they hurt you or you took something they said the wrong way. Your Bible reading and prayers are repeatedly interrupted as the event jumps into your memory. Your Bible is open and you are looking at the words on the page, but instead of actually reading the words, you might be re-enacting an unpleasant encounter in your mind. Perhaps, you might even write a “better ending” to that event, where you win your revenge and obtain vindication while your mortal enemy gets what they deserve.

I have been there, and I know others who have had similar experiences. The names and details are changed, but the story is the same. Resentment, bitterness, and unforgiveness interrupt prayer. Not only do they shatter your relationship with another person; they also build a brick wall between you and God.

The Christian life is based on forgiveness. Jesus died to forgive our sins. I am a Christian not because of what I know, how moral I am, or how much I read the Bible. I am a Christian because I accepted His gift of forgiveness. The same is true for every disciple of Jesus Christ.

So, perhaps Satan wants to keep us from extending forgiveness to others. If we forget how much God has forgiven us and how much all people need His grace, we have lost a major spiritual battle.

Therefore, when bitterness rises up, take action to forgive. Begin by praying that God would work in the other person’s life. Ask God to bless them (Romans 12:14-21).

Whenever you pray, take a few moments to allow the Holy Spirit to search your heart. Do you have any sins to confess and repent from? Are you harboring bitterness toward another person? Allow Him to guide you in removing any obstacles between you, God, and your neighbors.

Forgiveness is not a feeling. It is a choice. Sometimes, it is a daily choice before feelings follow. Pray every day for the other person. You might feel your blood boiling at first. Eventually, peace will come, and the other person will not be intruding in your prayer closet. Perhaps, by the power of God and the miracle of forgiveness, your former enemy may become your friend.

Is there anybody you need to forgive? How can you pursue reconciliation with them?

Copyright © 2023 Michael E. Lynch. All rights reserved.