A Reason to Forgive

Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, "Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother when he sins against me? Up to seven times?" Jesus answered, "I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times."

Matthew 18:21-22

Have you ever wondered why Jesus put such emphasis on forgiving others? One reason is the benefit to us. Medical research has discovered that some diseases have a relationship to an unforgiving spirit. For example, it is commonly known among doctors that people with certain types of arthritis are bitter people. Arthritis is not the only disease that may have its roots in refusing to forgive. The anger, bitterness and other emotions that we harbor when we won’t forgive another person(s) causes many hormones and neurotransmitters to be released into our body. In proper doses these chemicals can be helpful, but the large chronic doses that are released when we are bitter cause many health problems that can easily result in chronic illness.

When we have been seriously wronged, such as in adultery or rape, forgiving is a difficult process. The first step for the Christian is to realize that forgiving that person is not an option but a requirement. The second step is to realize that help is needed. For some people professional help may be required, for all people God’s help is required. If you know that you need to forgive someone, start by telling God. Repent of the sin of unforgiveness and ask Jesus to help you. You may find emotional/spiritual freedom immediately, or it may take years to feel you have truly forgiven. No matter how long it takes, God promises to heal our heart if we will take the first step and verbally forgive that person. Whether or not the person who wronged you ever apologizes, by forgiving them you just may be preventing a debilitating chronic illness from destroying your body. That alone makes forgiving worth the effort.

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