Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.

Colossians 3:13
In the course of the year since our 19-year- old daughter died, friends have struggled with knowing how to respond. One friend earnestly told me, “God took away Elizabeth because He knows what’s best.” As true as her words may be, they hurt. I’ve learned to forgive right away when others’ words feel insensitive. It’s difficult to speak carefully in heart-wrenching situations. At times I myself have said the wrong things to suffering friends. That friends came or called often has been more important than what they said. God’s man Job knew profound loss—of his personal wealth, of his health, and of his children. Job forgave his friends for their unkind words and he realized he had spoken of things he did not understand. In time, the Lord restored Job.
While most of us could hardly imagine bearing such tragedy like Job, our Savior knows it and more. He gave up everything (see Philippians 2:6-7) to pay for the sins of the world. And truly He defeated Satan, restoring our greatest fortune ever: a relationship with Him.



Scripture Focus

Job 42:7-9

Insight

When the words we hear or utter bring hurt, remember that we can forgive and be forgiven because Christ has forgiven us.

Bible In A Year

  • Ezekiel 33-34
  • Psalm 147
  • 1 Timothy 3-4

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