Slow to Anger, Quick to Forgive: Reflecting God's Grace Psalm 103:8
One of the most beautiful characteristics of God is His incredible patience with us. He is slow to anger and abounding in love. As we read in Psalm 103:8 (NLT):
“The Lord is compassionate and merciful, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love.”
God’s patience and grace are displayed throughout the Bible. Despite humanity’s repeated failures, God continually offers forgiveness. His heart is for restoration, not condemnation. But what about us? How do we reflect that same grace in our own lives?
Jesus taught us about forgiveness in the clearest of ways. In Matthew 6:14–15 (NLT), He said:
“If you forgive those who sin against you, your heavenly Father will forgive you. But if you refuse to forgive others, your Father will not forgive your sins.”
Forgiveness is not optional for followers of Christ; it’s essential. Why? Because we have been forgiven so much by God. The incredible debt we owe to Him has been paid by Jesus, and in response, we are called to show that same grace to others.
Being slow to anger and quick to forgive is not just a commandment, it’s a reflection of God’s character in us. The Greek word used for forgiveness in the New Testament is ?f??µ? (aphiemi), which means “to let go” or “to release.” When we forgive, we release the hurt, the bitterness, and the desire for revenge. We choose to let go because we know that Christ has forgiven us.
But let’s be honest—this isn’t easy. Forgiveness doesn’t come naturally to us, especially when we feel wronged or betrayed. However, in those moments, we must remind ourselves of God’s infinite patience and grace. If He can forgive us for our failures, how can we withhold forgiveness from others?
Pastor Charles Stanley once said:
“Forgiveness is an act of the will, and the will can function regardless of the temperature of the heart.”
It’s a decision, not a feeling. We may not feel like forgiving, but when we choose to forgive, we release both the offender and ourselves from the chains of bitterness.
So today, ask yourself: Is there someone you need to forgive? It might be a friend, a family member, or even yourself. As we reflect God’s character, let’s strive to be slow to anger, quick to forgive, and to walk in the freedom that comes from releasing others just as God has released us.
In a world full of grudges and resentment, we can stand out as beacons of grace, reflecting the forgiving heart of God.
Colossians 3:13 (NLT) encourages us:
“Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others.”
Today, let’s choose forgiveness, let’s choose grace. Just as God is slow to anger and quick to forgive, may we too reflect His love and mercy in our relationships with others.
