God’s Word is clear: forgiveness is not an option but a command.
Jesus says, “If you will forgive men their sins, your heavenly Father also will forgive you your offenses.” (Matthew 6:14)
Forgiveness frees the heart from bitterness, breaks the cycle of hatred, and places us in obedience to God.
However, forgiving does not mean being naïve or ignoring danger. God calls us to love, but also to wisdom.
Jesus Himself warned us:
“Be wise as serpents and innocent as doves” (Matthew 10:16)
A pure heart must be joined with a watchful spirit.
The Bible gives us clear examples.
Joseph forgave his brothers who sold him, but he first tested them before trusting them again (Genesis 42–45).
David forgave Saul and refused to kill him, yet he kept his distance to protect his life (1 Samuel 24; 26).
Even Jesus, full of love, “did not trust himself to them, because he himself had knowledge of all persons” (John 2:24).
These examples teach us that forgiveness heals the heart, while wisdom protects life.
To forgive is to renounce revenge and place justice in God’s hands; to remain wise is to recognize that not everyone is transformed.
“The clever saw evil and hid himself.” (Proverbs 22:3)
Thus, forgiving does not mean accepting everything or allowing everything.
Believers are called to love sincerely, to discern, and to set healthy boundaries.
The true biblical balance is a heart that fully forgives and an attitude that remains watchful.
PRAYER:
Lord, give us the grace to forgive freely and the wisdom to remain cautious.
Teach us to love according to Your truth, to discern rightly, and to walk under Your protection. Amen.
Apostle Dr Jean-Claude SINDAYIGAYA