I learned this principle earlier in my walk with the Lord, and it was reinforced as I listened to my spiritual father. It’s the principle of advance forgiveness. I made up my mind to forgive people in advance, no matter who they are and what they do. This way, I not only show God’s love to people, but I also protect my heart and future.
Friend, learn to practise advance forgiveness (Romans 5:8). This is not only the way of love; it’s also the way of wisdom. It’s the way to protect your heart and future. Walking in love and forgiving people has more benefits for the forgiver than the offender (Acts 24:16). The earlier you realize this, the better.
Living in offence is like taking a knife to hurt yourself while expecting the other person to bleed to death (Proverbs 4:23). Many people are bleeding today, covering wounds, and hurts with nice clothes and beautiful smiles (Psalms 139:23-24).
Stop covering offences and hurts. Don’t give place to the devil in your life (Ephesians 4:26-27). You need to let go and let God. You are not doing the other person a favour; you are actually doing yourself and your future a huge favour. You are living free so you can live full and fulfilled (Matthew 11:28-30).
Jesus already told us that offences are inevitable as long as we are in this world (Luke 17:1). However, being offended is a choice. This was why Jesus told us it would take your brother to offend you 70 times 7 (490) times for you not to forgive. (Matthew 18:21-22)
Practising advance forgiveness was exactly what God did (Colossians 1:14, Revelation 13:8). With God, true repentance will always meet with His forgiveness. The very last words of Jesus on the cross is, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do” (Luke 23:34). Who do you need to forgive today?
‘Demola Awoyele
Lead Pastor,
Destiny Impact Church
Akure, Nigeria