We will conclude today looking at Ephesians 4:32: "And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you." We have focused on the "how" and seen that kindness requires action; being tender hearted comes from our inner most being; and that forgiveness comes from grace. Today, we focus on the why: because Jesus Christ has forgiven you. Living in the light of this truth will affect your everyday relationships. When you are wronged, think about how you have wronged a holy God. As you seek forgiveness from God, don't carry the baggage of not forgiving those who have hurt you. It will slow you down and hinder your life with God.
Adam Clarke explained the benefit of practicing this verse: "The exhortations given in this chapter, if properly attended to, have the most direct tendency to secure the peace of the individual, the comfort of every family, and the welfare and unity of every Christian society. That God never prohibits any thing that is useful to us, is an unshaken truth. And that he never commands what has not the most pointed relation to our present and eternal welfare, is not less so." Living according the commands of Ephesians 4:32 will bring you peace and comfort.
Today, examine your relationships with family, friends and in your community of believers. Seek to be kind, fell compassion, and forgive quickly. As you do these things, you are glorifying God in that you are manifesting His transforming power working in your life.
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