Seventy Times Seven

The key to unity is forgiveness.

It's easy to look at others actions toward us and be  upset, but honestly, we need to look at all the stupid, careless and hurtful things we've done. When we see our own short comings we will have more grace and mercy on others. Trust me, it works for me when I'm feeling hurt by someone.

How many foolish things have we done in our younger less mature years? That should be enough  for us to cut others some slack no matter the offense. Plus, loving people in spite of their bad behavior is when it counts. That's what God does for us! :-)

 Matthew 5:46-48 The Message says, "You're familiar with the old written law, 'Love your friend,' and its unwritten companion, 'Hate your enemy.' I'm challenging that. I'm telling you to love your enemies. Let them bring out the best in you, not the worst. When someone gives you a hard time, respond with the energies of prayer, for then you are working out of your true selves, your God-created selves. This is what God does. He gives his best—the sun to warm and the rain to nourish—to everyone, regardless: the good and bad, the nice and nasty. If all you do is love the lovable, do you expect a bonus? Anybody can do that. If you simply say hello to those who greet you, do you expect a medal? Any run-of-the-mill sinner does that."In a word, what I'm saying is, Grow up. You're kingdom subjects. Now live like it. Live out your God-created identity. Live generously and graciously toward others, the way God lives toward you."

This is something we should all reflect upon in every season of our life because every new season comes with new hurts and pains, but those things don't have to rip us apart. We can't still maintain unity if we continue to forgive.

Seventy times seven!! :-)