God chose to love you, and you can choose to love, too!

“Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins.” (1 Peter 4:8 ESV)

An old saying you often hear is, “Forgive and forget!” But, when someone hurts you deeply, it’s impossible to do! You just can’t do it no matter how hard you try. In fact, the very act of trying to forget an offense only brings it up again and actually reinforces it. So, what do you do?

Don’t forget it, just forgive it!

You choose to do what’s right no matter how you feel, because it is the correct and loving thing to do! “Love covers a multitude of sins” (1 Peter 4:8b ESV).

That’s what Jesus did for you and all humanity on the cross! He did not feel like doing the right thing. In fact, He felt just the opposite! He sweat great drops of blood in anguish about it (Luke 22:44). He had a way out, too, He could have called thousands of angels to rescue Him, (Matt. 26:53), yet, He didn’t! He chose to do the right thing because of love (John 3:16).

Look beyond the offense

You choose to do the correct thing because you look beyond the fault to see the bigger picture on the other side of it.

When Jesus was on the cross he cried out, “Father, forgive them for they know not what they do!” (Luke 23:34 KJV). He chose to look beyond their fault and see their need!

“When he sees all that is accomplished by his anguish, he will be satisfied. And because of his experience, my righteous servant will make it possible for many to be counted righteous, for he will bear all their sins.” (Is. 53:11 NLT)

Expect God to make good come out of it

Keep in mind that God always sees the big picture of things. He has all the facts, and can make good come out of any situation no matter how it looks to you. Expect Him to!

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” (Rom. 8:28 NIV) And yes, this is another wonderful promise!