“And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.  But if ye do not forgive, neither will your Father which is in heaven forgive your trespasses.”  Mark 11:25-26.

I have often wondered who are we to not forgive?  Even when we are directly effected by the offender, why are we offended?  Who are we to be offended of a sin that was not committed against us but against God…even though it affects us?  On the other hand, what if we were the offender and our apology was not accepted?  Bitterness and offense can take hold in either circumstance.  “For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again.” Matthew 7:2.  Our own metes and measures can be tough when turned around on us.  Are we not trespassing God’s authority when we choose to hold others accountable for a sin committed against Him? 

Forgiveness blesses the forgiver, whether the forgiven forgives or not.  The effects of the offender’s sin against another depends on the condition of the heart.  Jesus Christ paid for the forgiveness of our sins.  Who are we to hold other’s sins against them?  Is this not what satan himself does? Is satan not the accuser of the brethren (Revelations 12:10)?

Be aware of the metes and measures in which we hold others.  Sin is against God but satan will use it against you to hinder your blessings.  We forgive them because it is not our place to be offended but to show God’s grace. – Donna Warren.