Today’s Devotional – Forgiveness

Scripture: “ Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others.” Colossians 3:13 New Living Translation (NLT)

I was working on a huge project and have been procrastinating somewhat because it was forcing me to my define goals. I also needed to make sure it fell within my purpose. With that being said, I can admit that I am also a recovering procrastinator and perfectionist. The two often go hand in hand because perfectionists often procrastinate to get things done because they are striving for perfection. Yup that’s me – a continuous work in progress. Anyway in true procrastinator fashion I open my social media app and began to scroll through the posts of the day. And why not, I’m taking a “break” from my project. Low and behold I came across posts from a celebration that I wasn’t invited to. Yes there you have it – photos of smiling familiar faces from an event that I was excluded from. Did I miss the invite…was it emailed or mailed? Unfortunately – no it wasn’t. Immediately feelings of hurt flooded over me and caused me to hang my head low. I was offended. Now whether the offense was intentional or unintentional oversight, it still did not feel nice. Break time was over, so I continued with my project and finished for the night. I was able to come up with a workable draft that gave me a lot of insight as to my next steps. Usually I just brush things off and keep going, but this still weighed subconsciously on my heart. I began to reflect on today’s scripture to make allowances for other’s faults and forgive anyone who offends you. I realize that my progress is blocked when I harbor forgiveness.

I’m reminded also that things are working for my good. God knows the plans he has for me (Jeremiah 29:11) and he knew that I needed to be in working on my project because it is setting the stage for what’s coming up for me this year. He also knew that I was booked for the next few weeks, so my downtime needed to be filled with productivity. His purpose and plan was to keep me on target and on purpose. Had I attended the event, I would not have been focused and made progress on my project. And so it is!

So today ask yourself:

• Is there anything that you are harboring in your heart today?
• Is there an offense you need to let go?
• What steps can you take to allow forgiveness in your heart?

Short prayer:

Lord help me to let go and forgive those who have knowingly offended me. I know that according to your word that all things are working for my good. Today I choose to forgive and believe that you are protecting me and ordering my steps. As I forgive the offenses of others, I am reminded that you also forgave me. I am thankful that you continue to cover me with your grace and mercy.   – Amen