FORGIVENESS!!! Why is it so hard to live in, once we receive it? We often struggle with guilt and self-loathing because of our sinful past, and our struggles in the present. How do we live in the power of forgiveness? One way to do that is to recognize your privilege and live in the gratitude you have for that forgiveness. We must remember that forgiveness is based on grace not works. We do not deserve forgiveness, it is granted! The purpose for granting forgiveness is because the relationship is more important that the restitution. In Titus 3:5 we are told that we are forgiven, “not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy. . . ” The forgiveness we receive is a privilege that we are given not based on our ability to prove a changed life, but because of the grace and mercy of the forgiver. This forgiveness should produce in our heart a motivation of gratitude toward the forgiver, that leads us to live a different life. Gratitude for what we have been given is a key to learning to be content in the situations of life (Philippians 4:11). I must always remember that I am not forgiven because I am perfect – I am declared perfect because I am forgiven. Praise the Lord for His goodness, and love manifested toward us. Spend time today meditating on our gratitude for all that God has done for us.