The other day at the grocery store, a woman cut in front of me in line. It was blatant. She knew what she was doing. My first reaction? Frustration. I wanted to say something sharp.
But then I felt the nudge of the Holy Spirit reminding me of Ephesians 4:32 (NLT) “Be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.” So I stayed quiet.
After a moment, she turned around, looked at me, and said softly,
“I’m sorry—I wasn’t paying attention.”
I smiled and replied, “It’s okay. Go ahead.”
She blinked, almost surprised. Then her expression softened. “Thank you… I’ve had
such a hard day. That little bit of kindness means more than you know.”
In that moment, I was reminded again that forgiveness isn’t always about huge betrayals. Sometimes it’s in the minor, everyday irritations—choosing to release offense before it takes root.
I walked out lighter. Not because she apologized, but because I let go.
Lesson learned: Forgiveness frees both hearts. Even when undeserved, it reflects the heart of Jesus—who forgave us long before we ever thought to ask.
Colossians 3:13 (NLT) Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others.
Pastor Tim Burt / © Tim Burt — TimBurt.org
