Living Free - May 24, 2013
Clothe Yourself with Mercy
Today's Scripture
"Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience." - (Colossians 3:12 NLT)
Thoughts for Today
As we close this week's discussion on dealing with bitterness and unforgiveness, let's look at some positive steps God wants us to take in our relationships. In today's scripture we are told to clothe ourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.
In 1 Thessalonians 5:15 we are told to do good to all people-not just those who are kind to us. All people-even those who have hurt us.
In Matthew 5:44-45, Jesus tells us to love our enemies and pray for them . . .
But I say, love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you! In that way, you will be acting as true children of your Father in heaven. For he gives his sunlight to both the evil and the good, and he sends rain on the just and the unjust alike. (NLT)
Consider this …
Have you made a choice to forgive? Find positive steps to take as you enter this process. Here are a few ideas . . .
- First, ask Jesus to forgive you for unforgiveness and bitterness and help you deal with them.
- If appropriate, write or talk to the one you are forgiving, telling him or her you have made this choice. (However, sometimes communicating with them may be impossible or unwise.)
- Begin to pray regularly for the individual you are forgiving. If you have an opportunity to show him or her kindness, do it!
- Consider having an accountability partner.
- Keep your eyes on Jesus-depend on his strength, not yours.
Prayer
Father, help me forgive. Help me walk in love and kindness, even toward the one who has hurt me so deeply. I can't do it in my strength, but I believe I can do all things with your help. In Jesus' name . . .
These thoughts were drawn from …
The Single Christian: Living as One in a World of Twos by Dr. Elizabeth Holland. In a world where everyone seems to have a mate, it is difficult to live life as a single person. Whether you have never been married, are divorced or are widowed, this study is for you. In The Single Christian, Dr. Holland examines many of the different facets of singleness, from rejection; bitterness and unforgiveness; loneliness; to dating; single parenting and the positives of being single. Note: This curriculum was written especially for small groups, and we encourage people to use it that way. However, it can also be used effectively as a personal study for individuals.
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