What Forgiveness Really Is

“If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault, between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have gained your brother.” Matthew 18:15

Forgiveness in one simple sentence:

Forgiveness is a vertical covenant followed by a horizontal commitment.

When someone wrongs you, your first move is not toward them — it is toward God.

Before you speak.

Before you text.

Before you rehearse the speech in your head for the 47th time.

You go to the Lord.

You hand Him the offense.

You entrust Him with the injustice.

You surrender your right to revenge.

Only then are you free to move horizontally toward the person who hurt you.

Forgiveness is rarely a one-time event. It is usually a long and difficult process. But it always begins vertically.

When you settle it with God first, your heart is steadied. Your emotions are filtered through grace instead of rage. Your desire shifts from retaliation to restoration.

So, ask yourself this question: Have I truly given this offense to the Lord first, or am I trying to handle it in my own strength?

By Susan Bolinger – Bloom Ladies Ministries, DOTK Community Writer