I am reminded early this morning of God’s everlasting presence in our lives as His children.  With the sound the world waking up in the cool breeze, I am reminded that God’s mercies really are new every morning.  And just think, take deep breath, can you smell it?  It won’t be long – there is football in the air!  God is good.  Finally, this morning let me take us back to this issue of forgiveness.  I honestly have been refreshed in my spirit having been reminded of these truths in these last several days.  

Maintaining proper attitudes in all relationships at times is difficult and can be an opportunity for sin to creep into our lives.  The sin of unforgiveness is a very real problem which we must deal with as often as it appears in our lives. 

As you deal with God and allow God to deal with you, there must be a time to go to others you have sinned against, hurt, or offended.  Make no mistake, the following practical steps are necessary if you are to experience a real sense of forgiveness and release in your own heart.  The basis for our reminder today is found in Proverbs 28:13.

1. You must address everyone involved.  Here is a rule to live by:  “If the sin is a private sin, then deal with it privately.  If it is a public sin, then deal with it publicly.”  By being public, I mean that it has had an affect on others in some way.
2. You must avoid using the words “if, but, and maybe.”  Repentance never has room for personal excuses.
3. You must admit specifically.  Remember, retail forgiveness comes when retail confession is used.  Otherwise nothing happens.  So, let me encourage you to be very specific.
4. You must apologize.  Never struggle with simply saying, “I am wrong.  I have sinned.  Please forgive me.”
5. You must accept the consequences.  Remember, you are the one who sinned.  You must accept the consequences of that sin.  Stop trying to alter the consequences because after all you do deserve them.  Let God even in this have His perfect way.
6. You must alter your behavior.  True repentance means true change.  Allow God to help you change your behavior.
7. You must ask for forgiveness. Ask the person:  “Knowing I have sinned against you, I ask you, will you forgive me for the sin I committed against you?”

If you have offended others, you have no other choice but to go to them.  Under God, you cannot conceal your sin and prosper.  You will only find compassion when you confess and repent to the person.  So, I strongly encourage you to release others and release yourself by the power of forgiveness.