Don't Rub It In!

Some people are always looking to catch the mistakes of others. Sometimes they even find some strange delight in throwing those mistakes back in their face from time to time. Though there are times when error needs to be pointed out and directed from [i.e. Matthew 18:15-17; Luke 17:3-4; Galatians 6:1 (But even in these note the spirit in which it is to be done.)], most of the time we are all well aware of our shortcomings. Sometimes we have enough trouble putting the past behind us ourselves and certainly it is no help when others refuse to let us forget as we are trying to press on from where we are. What is needed is encouragement to press onward in the right direction rather than burdening with the past that can be learned from, but not changed.

Someone has urged, "When a friend makes a mistake, don't rub it in -- rub it out!!!"

Isn't that the type of friend we should be? Isn't that the type of friend we want and need? Well, is that not exactly the type of friend we have?

To a crowd gathered in Solomon's colonnade, Peter exhorted. . .

"(19) Repent therefore, and turn again, THAT YOUR SINS MAY BE BLOTTED OUT, (20) that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord, and that he may send the Christ appointed for you, Jesus, (21) whom heaven must receive until the time for restoring all the things about which God spoke by the mouth of his holy prophets long ago." ( Acts 3:19-21 ESV)

The Greek word translated "blotted out" is from "exaleipho" ("ek", out, and "aleipho" to wipe) and is used metaphorically "in the sense of removal, to wipe away, wipe off, obliterate." [source: W.E. Vine's Expository Dict. Of N.T. Words] What refreshment that brings to life to know how adequately God deals with our sins as we turn our lives back toward Him and His Will. Let us also model HIS FORGIVING SPIRIT as we interact with others. Knowing how much we HAVE BEEN FORGIVEN ought to make it easier TO BE FORGIVING toward others. May A FORGIVING SPIRIT in our own life demonstrate our sincere appreciation for what we have received.

Have a great day BEING THE GODLY FRIEND OTHERS NEED!
Carl

See other teEn-MAIL on Forgiveness