You Hypocrites!

Forgiveness. We all want it.

But, we don't always offer it.

In our Bible study this week, we discussed persuasive arguments people give as a reason they don't go to church or why they aren't Christian.  One argument people give is that "Christians are hypocrites."

As a Christian, let me confess.  I'm a hypocrite.

That's right.  I believe in a standard set by Jesus Christ, a standard with a bar so high that I cannot possibly toe the line without mistakes. I profess to believe in something, and yet I sometimes act in contradiction to those beliefs.  I'm an imperfect human.

And so are you. We are all hypocrites, aren't we?  At times, each of us simply fails to live up to standards we have set for ourselves.  It is the nature of fallen mankind.

But, I'm a hypocrite saved by the grace of the Lord Jesus.

Back to the issue of forgiveness.  I've always wanted forgiveness when I make a mess of things.  When I know I've done something wrong, or I've hurt someone, I want to be forgiven for not getting things right.  I want to know that just because I'm a temporary hypocrite doesn't mean that I'm worthless, unlovable or unforgivable.

Am I extending that same forgiveness when I'm the one who's been hurt or wronged?  Not always.

But, I'm getting better at it. And, that's because I'm getting better at giving the hurt, the anger, the betrayal, the unfairness to God.  He will carry my burdens if I let them go and lay them at His feet.

"Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.  For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”
Matthew 11:29-30

When we forgive others, we are made right with God. It is not about letting someone off the hook.  It is about knowing and living in the standard set by our Redeemer, who has called us to "love others as we love ourselves."  So, that's the other part of the equation.

Forgive yourself.  We are called to forgiveness.  Of others and of ourselves.  In forgiveness you will find true freedom, for when we give our burdens of anger, sorrow, hurt, sadness, betrayal, and frustration completely to the Lord, we are free to feel love, peace and joy knowing that our burden is gone.

Be love and be blessed,