Have you heard the saying, "Live
ready, don’t get ready"? This concept is illustrated by a parable of ten
ladies waiting for a guest: five brought extra oil for their lamps, while the
other five did not. When their lamps began to dim, the unprepared ones went to
buy more oil. By the time they returned, the guest had arrived, and the doors
were closed. This story highlights the importance of being prepared, especially
in marriage.
In a marriage, it's essential to stock
up on extra forgiveness, as offences are inevitable. Like the guest’s arrival,
you can’t predict when you’ll need to forgive. Sometimes, couples offend each
other unintentionally, so a commitment to marriage means being ready to offer
forgiveness at any moment. Forgiveness, driven by love, can cover a multitude
of sins and offences. Resentment and bitterness can erode the joy, warmth, and
friendship that make a marriage special.
To prevent this, practice advance
forgiveness and ensure your forgiveness is genuine and permanent. I once heard
a funny story about a woman who, on the twenty-third anniversary of her
husband's affair, woke up in tears. When her concerned husband asked what was
wrong, she told him it was the anniversary of his infidelity!
When you say you forgive, you are
making a pledge to:
- Never bring the matter up again,
- Refrain from using it against your spouse,
- Avoid discussing it with others,
- Ensure it does not limit or affect your relationship in any way.
Conclusion
Let us emulate the forgiveness of
Jesus, who, while we were still sinners, died and offered forgiveness to us
despite our unworthiness. Strive to be like Christ in your forgiveness!
Call to Action
- Determine today to resolve matters
quickly and forgive completely and permanently.