Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you” Ephesians 4:32, ESV.
Sometimes we put certain expectations, whether unrealistic or not, on those close to us, especially our spouse. When they don’t do something, or they fall short of that expectation, we become upset or deeply hurt. Yet remember, your spouse is not you. Your spouse is growing, just like you. Your spouse is fallible, just like you. Your spouse is not God, just like you are not.
They may fall short; however, it is our responsibility to forgive and move forward. Anytime we don’t forgive and hold a grudge, we act as if we are God, sitting in the judgement seat that He alone is qualified to sit in. Only He is holy and worthy to decide whether someone should be forgiven. Yet, God is rich in mercy, backed by His love, toward all of us, and He requires that we love enough to extend the same mercy to one another.
Prayer: Father, You know what, I’ve been holding certain expectations on my spouse that I shouldn’t. I realize You are God and I am not, even when it comes to forgiveness. Help me to show the same mercy You show me and forgive my spouse. She’s growing just like I am. Allow Your love and freedom to continually flow in our marriage because we walk in forgiveness. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Study: Matthew 6:14-15, Mark 11:25, Romans 12:19-21
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