LOVE’S RECORD

…it keeps no record of wrongs… – 1 Corinthians 13:5d (NIV)

Love keeps no vengeful record of wrongs. Love does not take into account a wrong suffered, with the intention of begrudging or retaliating. Love doesn’t keep score of the offences of others. Love is not resentful. In short, LOVE FORGIVES time and again (Mt.6:12). “…Love covers over a multitude of sins” (1 Pet.4:8, NIV). “Hatred stirs up conflict, but love covers over all wrongs” (Pro.10:12, NIV).

Do I quickly forgive others and reject bitterness? Think about these: Are there certain people in your life that the moment you remember some things about them, you quickly form opinions, make assumptions and tend to interpret everything they do or say in light of your pre-conceived notions? Truly, they could have genuinely offended you; but when would they ever be free from that jail you’ve locked them in?

It is not only that love doesn’t do evil toward others; it is actually willing to forgive the evil that has been done against us. Love is willing to extend forgiveness, grace and mercy to those who seek these. Love does not store up memories of wrong or plan for revenge. Love wipes the account of wrongs each day to enable her to keep caring for the needs of others. Love is willing to give the “offenders” a second chance. Love refuses to be eaten up by anger or consumed by bitterness over past offenses. Love does not get bitter. Wounded, hurt and mistreated it might be, but love will always forgive. Jesus is the ultimate Model of forgiveness (Lk. 23:34); while Stephen follows in His steps, demonstrating love by forgiving the very people who were wrongfully putting them to death (Acts 7:60).