There is one thing Satan cannot overcome: Forgiveness. The act of forgiveness restores and heals, circumventing Satan’s attempt to divide and destroy. Christian forgiveness is without caveat or preconditions. Christian forgiveness is unqualified and unconditional no matter the circumstance or situation. Satan cannot overcome forgiveness.

Who are Christians to forgive? Everyone, including enemies. How often are Christians to forgive? Without end… 70 x 7… Seven times in one day if necessary.

If a person insults you… forgive. If they offend you… forgive. If they lie about you… forgive. If they malign your character and reputation… forgive. If they take advantage of you… forgive. No matter what people do… forgive. The only people we won’t forgive are those we don’t love… which violates the second greatest command. The only people who won’t forgive are those who aren’t forgiven.

Forgiveness is not followed by the word “but.” Forgiveness doesn’t say, “I’ll forgive BUT…” If there’s a condition attached to forgiving, it has not taken place. Whenever a relationship of any kind fractures, one or more parties have refused to forgive and be reconciled. If that is going to happen, do not be the party ending the relationship. It will hurt, but don’t be the one refusing to be reconciled.

A man I know attempted to aid in reconciling a pastor with some church members. He went to them three times. Each time the ladies told the man, “We’re not interested in reconciliation or restoration or forgiving” (Direct quote). The Deacon returned to the pastor and told him there was no hope because they openly, publicly, on multiple occasions refused to forgive.

What if you find yourself in a situation like that pastor? We find it in Romans 12:14, 17-21…

Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. 17 Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. 18 If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. 19 Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” 20 To the contrary, “if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.” 21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.