The Difference Between Forgiveness And Mercy

     So what is the difference between forgiveness and mercy? A lot of people think that forgiveness is a cancellation of a debt and/or punishment. That is actually the definition of mercy. Forgiveness is when you no longer hold the thing that that the offender did over them. You no longer hold a grudge. But that doesn't necessarily mean that they escape the consequences. Let's apply this in biblical terms. We are all sinners. When we ask for God's forgiveness, He does forgive us but that doesn't mean that we get to escape the consequences of our actions. We are still condemned to a physical death for rebelling against God. However, God grants us mercy from eternal damnation. In other words, He essentially cancels that punishment for us. We don't need to suffer because Jesus already paid the price on our behalf. That is grace. God has a perfect mix of forgiveness, mercy, and grace. That is truly wonderful.
     Resentment is hard to beat. It doesn't go away if you forgive only once. You must repeatedly forgive and pray to God for the strength and wisdom necessary to do so. I forgive the offenders but that doesn't mean I have to agree with what they did. I refuse to hold this over them because by doing that, I am letting this offense control my life and behavior. This grudge has gone on long enough. It has lasted 10 years and that is my fault for letting it affect me the way it has. I in turn pray for forgiveness. Resentment is quite the interesting creature. You don't want to let go of it and yet it continually poisons you. It's quite literally addictive and it takes a lot of willpower to break the cycle. By the goodness of God, He has provided me a way out. I have to work for it but it's worth it and I am just thankful that God answered me. Holding onto a grudge this long has consequences but I am willing to endure them. I honestly love how God teaches us. It's seriously spiritual nourishment for me. It just lets me regain that childlike wonder at how God works and the work I see Him doing in my life and in the lives of others. God is truly great!!!