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In His dealings with His people, God shows His capacity for forgiveness over and over and over again. Israel continually rejected God, even after He had delivered them from slavery and provided for their needs. Each time, God forgave them.

But the ultimate rebellion came at the very edge of the Promised Land. Just as the people were getting ready to go into Canaan, the land God was giving them in His generosity and goodness, they rebelled again and tried to stone the leaders God had appointed. God threatened to destroy the people, but when Moses interceded for them, He forgave them once more.

If you are a Christian, you, too, are expected to forgive over and over and over again. People may continually violate your trust, but you must be willing to overlook their offenses. This doesn't mean, however, that you must trust them again! God forgave the Israelites who rejected Him, but He also decreed that they would not enter the Promised Land. Only their children would be allowed to go in and claim God's promise.

In the same way, be wise about where you place your trust. You shouldn't nurse anger against someone who has broken her promise to you. But carefully consider whether or not you should give her another opportunity to violate your trust. (See also 1 Samuel 24; Matthew 7:1-5; Matthew 18:21-35; Luke 6:27-36.)

Let the power of my Lord be great, just as You have spoken, saying, "The LORD is longsuffering and abundant in mercy, forgiving iniquity and transgression." Numbers 14:17-18

Are you nursing anger toward someone? Make today the day you forgive him or her.

Copyright 2001 by the author or Christianity Today International/Christian Bible Studies.

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