“True forgiveness of those who wrong us demonstrates more than anything else whether or not you are serious about walking with God on a deeper level.”- Os Hillman
As Os Hillman continues Chapter 11 of The Joseph Calling, he underscores that times exist when people must do things out of pure obedience. In other words, pure obedience operates independently of good feelings.
Thus, Os reveals the bottom line for people who hold on to bitterness and refuse to forgive. Such people make themselves out to be victims. Hence, as victims, they fail to see the wickedness of their own sin before the cross. Writing in My Utmost for His Highest, Oswald Chambers describes the sin of self-pity:
“No sin is worse than the sin of self-pity, because it obliterates God and puts self-interest upon the throne. It opens our mouths to spit our murmurings and our lives become craving spiritual sponges.”
Most importantly, Os exhorts, God’s able to heal the sting of betrayal. Our job involves taking the first step toward forgiveness. That first step happens as we accept and admit our own need for mercy.
Furthermore, offering undeserved love incredibly impacts the one who betrayed you. In fact, the author defines the true gospel as “faithfulness expressed in the face of unfaithfulness.” Therefore, Os states, people must develop their theology based on what the Bible teaches, rather than the level of pain-avoidance and lifestyle they desire.
In conclusion, the author looks at what happens when we’re forced into a battle we didn’t choose:
“When we are forced into a battle we did not choose, it is the place of initiation to live for a cause greater than ourselves. It is in this battle where we learn the reality of our faith and whether the God we intellectually believe in can be trusted with the outcome of our lives.”
Today’s question: What Bible verses help you show true forgiveness to those involved in the loss of your calling? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “Let your faith change your circumstances”
