“Forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” (v.13)
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. But when we realize how much God has forgiven us, we are compelled to extend mercy to others. The Bible urges us to "put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; . . . even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do,"
Here in chapter 3, Paul is teaching the brethren in Colossi to, "Put on the new man.” In verses 12-17, he speaks specifically of the “characteristics” of the new man – one of which is forgiveness, and the importance of forgiving one another. The seriousness of which becomes very clear in the light of God’s willingness to forgive us, by sending His Son to the death of the cross. Therefore, we can be absolutely certain that God takes forgiveness of sin very seriously.
The apostle goes on to say in this chapter to, "let the peace of God rule in your hearts." The Greek word means arbitrate. Whenever there is a doubtful issue to be decided, and by one course your peace may be disturbed, and by another it may be maintained, choose the things that make for peace, whether for yourselves or others. Let God’s peace act as umpire.
And so we forgive those who have wronged us, even though it may be difficult. Holding a grudge can only due your spirit harm, hinder your prayers (1 Peter 3:7), and even your own forgiveness from the Lord (Matthew 6:14). Therefore forgive one another.
The Truth: "For if you forgive others when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you." (Matthew 6:14)
