Grace is not only a quality we aspire to show, but also something we are called to extend to others. This reflection challenges us: how often do we actively offer grace to those closest to us?
Sometimes, people betray us. Are we quick to forgive?
Colossians 3:13 “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you”.
Unforgiveness is something many struggle with; I have seen it throughout my life, especially in families.
Families not speaking for years and people developing deep bitterness and resentment are common circumstances.
Whereas the enemy thrives on division and conflict, God is calling us to make peace.
I learned that while we expect grace ourselves, can we offer it to those we believe do not deserve it?
The Lord has helped me forgive, though it is not always easy. I have learned to forgive my birth father, even after recent disappointment.
Learning to forgive, even when it feels hard and may cost us, is an essential part of extending grace.
The bible tells us clearly in Matthew 6:15, “But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins”.
This verse distinctly shows us the consequences of our unforgiveness.
Sometimes we say we forgive, but what is our behaviour when we encounter those individuals again?
Are there still feelings of bitterness when you speak to them, or when someone mentions them?
Is it false ?
Is it ‘false forgiveness’—a superficial act, suppressing anger instead of releasing it?
God wants you to be released today.
True forgiveness heals the heart; it does not involve continued resentment.
To extend grace, are we willing to understand others without judgment and show empathy?
Extending grace means showing kindness and compassion, regardless of what others have done to us.
Jesus shows a true example of extending grace at the cross in Luke 23:34 while being crucified, Jesus said “Father,forgive them,for they do not know what they are doing ”.
Despite the immense suffering He endured, He was able to offer grace and mercy.
Likewise, Stephen modelled Christ in Acts 7:60, he demonstrated forgiveness while being stoned to death.
Verse 60 : Then he fell on his knees and cried out, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them”.
Both examples show deep, unconditional forgiveness. They forgave without an apology.
Both examples prompt us to ask: are we able to do the same?
When persecution comes, are we able to respond as Jesus did?
Matthew 5:44 tells us, “But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you”.
Even if you feel hurt, oppressed, abused, or neglected, maintaining a heart willing to pray for them is vital.
Our second greatest commandment is to love.
Therefore, we must show love.
Jesus taught in John 13:34, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another”.
I understand some people may be hard to love.
Even when people are hard to love, are we still able to show it ?
This ability matters, despite whatever has happened in the past.
You may be finding it hard to move forward. However, ask God to help you; He can heal your heart.
Do not let pride halt your breakthrough.
Do not let unforgiveness stop your blessings.
In light of this, we are living in an extended grace period, highlighting that God now offers us the opportunity to turn to Him.
God is calling us today. Will we answer?
His arms are out wide for us.
God is extending His grace; are we ready to respond?
Salvation is offered and secured through God’s grace.
Ephesians 2:8-9 “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith– and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God”.
We must repent and believe.
As we repent and believe, we must also ensure we are free from bitterness or resentment.
God has given us this chance to make our lives right with Him.
Do not let time run out.
The reality is, we may not have tomorrow.
Time is precious.
We must also question whether we will miss the opportunity to make it right with our loved ones.
We do not want to have regret.
Before it’s too late, make changes in your relationships.
Therefore, may unforgiveness not be a stumbling block for us to reach God’s Kingdom.
Is our heart clean and pure before God?
Thus, we must examine ourselves daily.
In today’s world with ‘cancel culture’.
May we not be quick to cancel others.
Imagine if God was so quick to cancel us.
God extends His grace, and our response should be to extend grace to others.
Will you commit to forgiving unconditionally, extending patience, kindness, and speaking with love?
I pray this word will encourage you to have a desire to make things right.
Choose today to be a vessel overflowing with grace, reflecting God’s glory.
PRAYER
Father in the Name of Jesus,
I thank you for your grace and mercy,
Thank you for your extended grace you have for us,
Cleanse us today from all unrighteousness,
Cleanse us from unforgiveness,
Empty us from bitterness,
Heal our hearts today,
Give us a pure heart,
Help us to forgive unconditionally,
Help us to love,
Make us kind and patient,
May we respond like you Jesus,
Give us a heart like yours,
May we move forwards,
Give us a desire to make things right,
I pray against division,
I pray against conflict,
Unite families,
Repair relationships,
Remove pride,
Perfect us in our weaknesses,
Help us to make peace,
Give us empathy,
Turn us to you, Jesus,
Thank you for your saving grace,
We repent today,
May nothing prevent us from entering your kingdom,
Today we choose to surrender to you,
May we yield to you,
Overflow us with your grace,
In your precious Holy Name,
Amen.
Written by Jaeger. V
28/04/26