We bear with each other and forgive as Christ has forgiven us.
“Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.”Colossians 3:13 (KJV)
What does “Forbearing” mean in Colossians 3:13?
Forbearing means putting up with others' faults and weaknesses. Paul pairs it with forgiving, and gives Christ's forgiveness as the model.
Going deeper
Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. Paul describes a community where people have real quarrels, and he does not pretend otherwise. His answer is to bear with each other's flaws and to forgive when there is a genuine offense. The standard is high: as Christ forgave you. Our forgiveness of others is patterned on His forgiveness of us.
It helps to keep in mind how much we have been forgiven. That memory softens us when we are tempted to hold a grudge. Forbearing and forgiving are two different things. Some irritations we simply bear, out of love. Some wrongs we must forgive, releasing the debt. Think about whom you need to do each with. Ask God for grace, and take one step this week, whether it is letting a small thing go or having a hard conversation.
Reflect
What do you need to simply bear, and what do you need to forgive?
Pray
Lord, thank You for forgiving me. Help me to bear with others and to forgive as You forgave me. In Jesus' name, amen.
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