Series:  Forgive as The Lord Forgave You

“But to those who are listening I say Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.” Luke 6:27-28

Steve Jobs, the late CEO and founder of Apple, Inc., found he could streamline his morning routine by always wearing a black turtle-neck shirt and the same style of jeans (which he laid out the night before). Having fewer decisions helped him focus on bigger and more important things.

Warren Buffett, former CEO of Berkshire/Hathaway, and possibly the most successful investor in history, always had the same breakfast, at the same time, in the same seat at the McDonald’s near his home. He found that limiting his options and decisions helped to increase focus. By predetermining as many things as possible, it gave room to think about more important things, he said.

As believers, it would help us live a more productive and successful life in obedience to The Lord if we would predetermine to follow The Lord’s commands. By deciding to obey, we would be ready to forgive when offenses and disappointments come, and they will come. We risk the temptation of unforgiveness and bitterness by allowing ourselves to feel the pain and rationalize the injustice of it all.

By making up our minds to follow after God’s ways and forgive those who have trespassed against us as God has forgiven us (Matthew chapter 6), we’re taking the bullet out of the chamber of the enemy’s weapon. Instead of giving failure-to-forgive an opportunity, if we pre-decide to walk in love and live a life of forgiveness, we’re setting ourselves up to please The Lord and receive His great rewards. You may say, “I don’t need rewards, that isn’t what it’s all about for me.” The Lord’s rewards are our deepest desires and the most sincere longing of our hearts. By living as though we have no option except to obey The Lord, we’re positioned for God’s blessings. Unforgiveness and bitterness only hurt the one holding on to it, not the perpetrator of the offense.

“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” Ephesians 4:32

Decide today to live a life of love and forgiveness.