Week 3 · Following Jesus with his people
Day 17
Receive and offer forgiveness
Before you read, ask the Holy Spirit to help you understand the passage and respond honestly.
Read
Colossians 3:12-15; Ephesians 4:25-32
Read in the ESV ↗Read the whole passage slowly, twice if you can. Then come back here.
Understand
Paul calls people loved by God to practice compassion and forgiveness. He also tells them to put away lying, bitterness, and destructive speech. Forgiveness grows from the mercy Christ has given us and becomes visible in how we treat others.
Forgiving does not mean calling evil good, pretending pain has vanished, or restoring trust without evidence of change. Reconciliation involves another person’s response, and safety may require firm boundaries. You can seek freedom from personal vengeance while pursuing truth and appropriate accountability. Ask for help when the hurt is deep. A disciple may need time and repeated prayer to work through it faithfully.
Pray
Father, thank you for your mercy toward me. Help me release revenge and seek what is right. Give me wisdom about truth, boundaries, and any steps toward peace that are possible. Amen.
Use this as a starting point, then speak in your own words.
Reflect
Is there someone you need to apologize to, or a hurt you need help bringing to God?
Act today
If appropriate and safe, offer one specific apology without excuses. If you are the person harmed, write a prayer naming the hurt and the help you need. Seek pastoral support before approaching someone when a direct conversation would be unsafe or unwise.
Words you will hear today
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Walking with someone through this? See the week 3 guide
Missed a day? Resume where you stopped. You don't need to catch up.