LOVE KEEPS NO RECORD OF WRONGS
1 Corinthians 13:5
Keeping a record of wrongs involves remembering past hurts, offences, or injustices and using them to fuel anger, resentment, or bitterness. We may want to quickly rebut this and claim that we are Christians. Before we rush into that conclusion, we need to realise that we are also prone to keeping accounts of wrongs done against us. We keep record of wrongs when we continually think about past hurts, injustices, or offences, replaying them in their minds, and re-experiencing the emotions, maintaining a mental or written list of wrongs done to them, including dates, times, and details of each.
We also measure wrongs when we repeatedly share past hurts with friends, family, or even social media, which can perpetuate a sense of victimization and resentment. We have a way of coding it to generate sympathy and play the victim. What about holding grudges, refusing to forgive others, even after they’ve apologized or made amends, instead we hold onto resentment and anger. Also using past hurts to manipulate others or control others to do our bidding, such as guilt-tripping or playing the victim.
These behaviours can hinder our relationships, spiritual growth, and overall well-being. The dangers of keeping a record of wrongs includes bitterness and resentment, causing harm to ourselves and others. It can cause strained relationships. Unforgiveness and resentment can damage relationships, making it difficult to reconcile or move forward. What of the spiritual consequences? Refusing to forgive and holding onto grudges can hinder our spiritual growth and relationship with God.
Love keeps no record of wrongs. As followers of Christ, we are called to forgive others and release the past, just as God has forgiven us, demonstrating this kind of love towards others, choosing to forgive and show compassion rather than holding onto grudges and resentment. Take time to reflect on your relationships and interactions with others. Where you need to forgive and release the past, ask God to help you forgive others and let go of resentment and anger.
PRAYER: May we love others in a way that keeps no record of wrongs, seeking to forgive others and release the past, just as you have forgiven us.
