Why is it that so often the ones hardest to forgive are the ones that have offended our loved ones, but not us personally? We might feel we are taking ownership of the pain in order to portray our allegiance for the one who is hurt, but it only opens a door for bitterness and resentment to take root and grow. Your loyalty does not erase the wrong for the one wronged. It just doesn't work that way.
Sinful people are going to at times live decadent lives without punishment, while the innocents suffer insults and false accusations. But are any of us really innocent?
Be careful about swallowing all that anyone says about someone else. People will hurt each other without your help. Be careful not to join in an argument, invited or not. It can only destroy...your spirit, your relationship, your testimony. You can change the whole atmosphere of the conversation by your words, so choose them wisely.
Most of the time when we take up an offense, the two original people will work things out and you will be alone in the anger and bitterness you chose to bear. It just isn't smart to take things on that have nothing to do with you.
Bear the burden, but not the offense. There is a difference.
Mark 11:25 "And whenever you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against anyone, so that your Father also who is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses."
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