Daily Devotional - November 9th, 2025
“And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” — Ephesians 4:32
“Forgiveness is a decision you make long before you are offended.
It’s a precious gift that does no good unless it is extended.
It relieves the mind and unburdens the souls of those who freely give it,
And heals the wounds of past misdeeds for all who strive to receive it.
Forgiveness is a sign of respect for a Savior who dearly loves us.
He bled and died and gave His life so our sins could be remitted.
When we forgive we show God’s love to those who may mistreat us,
Just as our Savior does for us, in spite of wrongs we committed.
Forgiveness heals the broken heart from the bitter pain of anger.
It drowns the hurt we might have felt and leaves us feeling kinder.
Some day when all is said and done and we are six feet under,
The love we showed when we forgave is what our God will remember.”— Alma Ohene-Opare
Commentary:
This poem captures the divine heart of forgiveness—a decision, not a reaction. It reminds us that forgiveness is not about waiting until we feel ready; it is about choosing freedom over resentment and peace over pride. To forgive before being offended is to live in the same spirit Christ displayed when He prayed, “Father, forgive them” while still on the cross. Such forgiveness reflects courage born of faith, not weakness born of fear.
When we forgive, we are not condoning sin but releasing ourselves from its grasp. As the poem teaches, forgiveness unburdens the heart and heals wounds that time alone cannot. Each act of mercy reflects our respect for the Savior’s sacrifice—the One who “bled and died and gave His life so our sins could be remitted.” True forgiveness mirrors His divine love and transforms bitterness into compassion.
In the end, the poem reminds us that what will matter most is not the harm we endured, but the love we extended. Forgiveness is the legacy of the redeemed heart, and it testifies that Christ’s grace has taken root within us.
Scripture:
“And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” — Ephesians 4:32
Daily Application:
Reflect on one person who has caused you pain. Pray for the strength to release that hurt to God today, choosing peace instead of pride.