
The Gift of Forgiveness
Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.—Colossians 3:13 (NIV)
Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.—1 PETER 3:9 NIV
Ah, the temptation to repay evil with evil…especially when you’re being mistreated or falsely accused. Have you, as a caregiver, ever wanted to lash out verbally when hurt? We probably all know what that feels like.
So what’s wrong with venting? Why not give that person you’re caring for a piece of your mind? Because we are Christ-followers and, as such, called to mimic His behavior. When Jesus encountered a wounded or sick person, He never lashed out. Likewise—even if the one you’re caring for has offended you in some way—you are never released by God to repay insult with insult, but rather with blessing.
Blessing? Is that really possible? It is, as long as you don’t react in the moment. Quick reactions are often angry reactions. Take some time to breathe. To pray. To think about your response. Then ask the Lord to give you exactly the right “words of blessing” to speak over the situation. You’ll be surprised every time. He’ll do just that!
Heavenly Father, sometimes I want to speak my mind. To get mad. To insult because I’ve been insulted. In those times, I ask for Your patience. May I only speak words that You would speak.

Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.—Colossians 3:13 (NIV)

For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways.—Psalm 91:11 (NIV)

But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.—Romans 5:8 (NIV)