Bible Verse: Anyone you forgive, I also forgive. And what I have forgiven—if there was anything to forgive—I have forgiven in the sight of Christ for your sake, in order that Satan might not outwit us. For we are not unaware of his schemes. 2 Corinthians 2:10–11 (NIV)
Scripture Reading: Matthew 10:16; Hebrews 12:14-15
As we conclude our week on forgiveness, there’s one more thing you need to know.
Christians can easily confuse “forgiveness” with “trust.” These are two different ideas, and we need to know the difference.
Forgiveness is based on faith in God, not necessarily faith in other people. Trust involves people, who may or may not be living godly lives. While we are admonished and encouraged by Scripture to forgive, we are not told to trust everyone.
When we forgive people, with God’s help, we trust Him to take care of us. We reflect His grace and love each time we forgive, and it transforms us.
The other person (the one we are forgiving) may or may not have experienced any such transformation or taken God-honoring steps to acknowledge or correct their ways. God is not requiring you to simply pick up where you left off and trust them at the same level again. To do so may put you in the same situation again, and maybe even a worse one.
Forgiveness does not mean trusting. Trust is earned, and built over time with people who are accountable to appropriate behaviour, and, if they are Christians, to biblical standards. Just because someone is forgiven doesn’t mean there are no consequences that need to be dealt with.
When you forgive, you release and lay aside your anger, but it may take time to trust again. If the other person cares about the relationship, they will likely understand. If your friend stole your truck last summer and never brought it back, you may forgive him, but you might be wise not to let him borrow your lawn mower immediately.
It depends a lot on the situation and the person.
Forgiveness must be freely granted; it can’t be earned. Trust can’t be freely granted; it must be earned.
This doesn’t mean the person is never allowed back in your life again, but you may need to reevaluate the boundaries you both need moving forward.
In our Scripture reading today, we see unforgiveness can be a scheme Satan uses to get a foothold in our lives. Unforgiveness leads to bitterness, and the rest is downhill from there.
Stay in the protective cover of God’s grace and forgiveness by continually receiving it and sharing it. Men who get consumed by revenge or past hurts are being outwitted by the enemy.
Prayer: Father, I want to be so aware of Your grace and forgiveness towards me that I can’t help but share it with others. Help me to forgive others in a way that honours You for the rest of my life. I pray You also help me discern the difference between forgiveness and trust as I live out these truths for Your glory. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Reflection: As you walk out these truths about forgiveness, don’t be discouraged if you seem to be fighting against old habits that persist regarding how you hold grudges or desire payback after an offence. Be accountable to God. You know more truth on the subject now, and you can ask the Holy Spirit to help you live this out and change your behaviour. If Jesus asked us to be merciful, gracious, and forgiving, then we can count on His help to empower us along the way.
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