Many of us have heard the old saying whoever, or in some cases whatever, angers you controls you. Past experiences, misunderstandings, or someone intentionally hurting you can cause episodes of anger and episodes of someone else controlling your feelings and emotions.

I have heard many stories where benevolence plays a role in these situations. Sometimes helping out with money, a place to stay for a while, and use of car for a transportation can put us in a situation where we may be taken advantage of. Maybe our kindness is repaid with unkind words exchanged. These situations become a burden to us and bitterness and anger set in. Did the person intentionally take advantage or did they plan on stealing from us?

As a consequence of their actions, we are mad at them, mad at ourselves, and mad at anyone who may have contributed to the situation. As anger grows in our heart, it overtakes our lives and affects every aspect of it. We take on an defensive attitude and take offense to the tiniest things. Our anger eats our opportunities for a better tomorrow.

The book “The Darkness and the Dawn” by Charles Swindoll describes in detail what Jesus did. As a man, He was mocked, spit on, and was accused but not guilty of any of the accusations. Jesus was betrayed by His followers and abandoned by His disciples. He stood alone. Eventually even God deserted Him.

Hanging on the cross, Jesus asked His Father to forgive everyone because they did not understand what they were doing. Even in His darkest hour, Jesus felt compassion for others. He showed this compassion so that we can be free from sin and its consequences. He forgave us for every sin we have committed and would ever commit in the future.

Maybe many things don’t make sense to you today, but they will once we stand face-to-face before Jesus. He will embrace you in His arms and comfort you. With one hand He will hold you and with the other hand He will love you. We will praise Jesus forever.

So as you meditate on what Jesus has done for you, remember to forgive yourself and to forgive others. Choose to speak words of forgiveness. Next time you are hurt speak these words:  I choose to forgive you _____________________. I am forgive and I will do the same for you. I walk the path of victory.

Only forgiveness will allow you to walk the path of victory for yourself, your family, your friends, and your co-workers. Show the love of God with forgiveness. Besides how can we not forgive others when Jesus has forgiven us for so much?