It’s all about the vertical relationship
The relationships here on earth are all about our horizontal interactions. If you think of a cross and its horizontal beam, the care and feeding of other human interactions is represented by the horizontal relationships to the world. However, a horizontal beam doesn’t stand on its own without the vertical beam. The vertical beam represents our relationship and connection with our Father. The need for forgiveness and amends to others is a result of our horizontal interactions. But, our end-state in reaching forgiveness has nothing to do with the horizontal and has everything to do with the vertical relationship with the Father. Our forgiveness relies on our relationship and faith in our Father.
Our faith should be accompanied by the right actions.
When faced with trials of suffering, anger, hurt, despair, and trauma as it pertains to another horizontal relationship, we have to find ways to release those chains and bondage that hold us captive in our angry thoughts and actions. We must forgive. But, “how?” you ask. This is where things can get blurry really easy. Most of us get told, “just go tell them you forgive them”. No. That is not the answer. Forgiveness doesn’t; mean you forget. Forgiveness doesn’t mean you still don’t have a process of healing. However, forgiveness as a result of our vertical relationship to the Father allows us to release the anger and feelings holding us back from allowing the Father, Jesus and the Holy Spirit to work in us to restore us to beauty. True forgiveness to the person that harmed you is brought before the Father. Our faith is in our Father as judge and creator of all things. He will make all things right. One powerful Bible verse that speaks to the promise of God making all things right is Revelation 21:4. It says, “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”
The Power of Forgiveness in Our Vertical Relationship with God
Forgiveness is at the heart of our faith and our relationship with God. When we embrace forgiveness, we align ourselves with God’s nature and His divine plan for our lives.
In Matthew 6:14-15, Jesus teaches us:
“For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.”
This passage underscores the importance of forgiveness in our vertical relationship with God. When we forgive, we demonstrate our understanding of God’s grace and mercy. We acknowledge that, just as we have been forgiven, we must also extend forgiveness to others.
Forgiveness is not just an act of obedience; it is a reflection of God’s love flowing through us. It heals wounds, restores relationships, and brings peace to our hearts. By forgiving, we allow God’s transformative power to work in us and through us, making us instruments of His grace.
In the end, forgiveness is about surrendering our pain, resentment, and desire for retribution to God. It is an act of trust, believing that God will make all things right in His perfect time. As we let go and forgive, we experience the fullness of God’s love and the true freedom that comes from living in harmony with His will.
Who do you choose to forgive today?
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