my covenant's keeper: the atmosphere

We can all agree that "to love" is the greatest command given to us by God our Father. In addition, we can probably agree that walking out this command is even harder. Is it because we are not readily aware of the integral pieces that are involved with love? One specifically in mind is forgiveness.

If you have not heard this before, be aware that forgiveness is for you and not the one in need of the forgiving. If we take a look at the many scriptures where Jesus cautions us on offense or being offended, we can see that the directives apply not only to the offender, but also to the one bearing the offense. In other words, DON'T HOLD GRUDGES. The next three points may be tough, but please CHOOSE not to be offended. Prayerfully hear the intent of the message.

Most often, in the realm of offense, we can easily identify when we have been offended as opposed to when we have offended others. This is important, because if we do not handle being offended properly, we can continue the downward spiral of offense. There is no hurt that we experience that can equate to what Jesus went through as an innocent being on this earth who was sacrificed for a people who did not love Him in the same measure as He loved us. Yet, the whole point was to forgive and reconcile. He didn't even require for us to provide a reason to lay down His life. Yet, He gave us a reason why He did; love without conditions. He forgives without rehashing with us over and over again our sins and shortcomings whenever we approach Him. As His disciples, we should be able to follow His example, especially when the offenses we face pale in comparison to His.

The truth of the matter is that if He had not forgiven us, salvation would not exist, and we would not be able to commune with the Holy Spirit as we do now. In the same manner, if we cannot forgive others, we cannot commune together and fellowship the way our Father intended. If we do not forgive, then we are acting in disobedience, and forfeiting the blessings and rewards He has allocated for us in and through the act of fellowship. Since marriage is a ministry, then fellowship in marriage is just as important as fellowship in any ministry. Therefore, forgiveness in marriage is just as important as forgiveness in any other ministry.

Last point. We prayerfully ask Jesus for daily forgiveness on the same level that we forgive others. "Forgive us of our trespasses AS WE FORGIVE (in the same manner and measure) those who have trespassed against us." Think back on how you have handled your assignments to forgive in the past. Is that the level of forgiveness you desire from God? If not, how can you improve? What steps are you willing to take to create and maintain a redemptive atmosphere in your marriage?

Warmest regards,
Bird & Fish