Ephesians 4:31–32 Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, disturbance, slander and every form of malice from among you. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving one another, just as God forgave you in Christ.
Today's quote reminds me that in the practice of forgiveness, the Holy Spirit first changes my own heart, not the one who offends me. Ephesians 4:31–32 also teaches me to first remove bitterness, resentment, and malice from my own heart before responding to others with kindness and mercy. True forgiveness is not about waiting for the other person to confess, repent, or change for the better, but about allowing the Holy Spirit to work within me, making me willing to forgive others as Christ forgave me. Forgiveness is a testament to my spiritual maturity and an essential path to walking with God.
Lord, we confess that we still harbor hurt, resentment, and unresolved emotions. We ask the Holy Spirit to work within us, first purifying our hearts, removing bitterness, anger, and resentment, so that we may respond to those who offend us with kindness, mercy, and forgiveness. Lord Jesus, just as You forgave me, grant me the strength to forgive others in the same way. Renew my heart, that I may walk in love, and that forgiveness may be Your testimony in my life. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.