Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. (Ephesians 4:32)
No forgiveness, no marriage. Let me explain. Judy and I have been married 37 years. For the past four decades I have been doing marriage counseling, both inside and outside the military. My conclusion about marriage: marriage doesn’t work without forgiveness. All married men and women make mistakes — no exceptions. Husbands mess up. So do wives. It has always been that way and always will. If you are married, you know this to be true.
Fortunately, there is good news. God has always known this would be the case. In this verse the Lord reminds us that we must forgive each other, just as Christ forgave us. Husbands must forgive wives. Wives must forgive husbands. Forgiveness can do amazing things in marriage relationships. It provides a second chance. It diminishes anger. It takes away bitterness. It restores love and hope, and so much more. Don’t let bad feelings stop you. God commands us to forgive.
