The following series is based on a book written by Jeremy and Sushma Ballard, “Is Your Home a Jesus Home?” The book is available for purchase on Amazon (Paperback & eBook), Barnes & Noble (Paperback & eBook), and Apple Books (eBook). Every purchase helps to support Jesus Home Ministries and the work Jeremy and Sushma are doing.
Last time, we discussed the family roles. Today, we will study the importance of love and forgiveness. Forgiveness is crucial in a family. Unforgiveness can destroy a family faster than anything else. For a family to thrive and live in harmony, forgiveness must be a foundational practice. In fact, receiving forgiveness from God hinges on our willingness to forgive others. Jesus clearly teaches that if we want God to forgive us, we must forgive others (Matthew 6:14–15; Mark 11:25; Luke 6:37).
Why should we forgive? When we struggle to forgive, we should remember how much Jesus has forgiven us when we didn’t deserve it (Ephesians 4:32). Everyone must forgive as often as needed. In Matthew 18:21–22, Peter asks Jesus how often he should forgive a brother who sins against him—seven times? Jesus replies, “I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven.” Jesus isn’t suggesting we keep a tally up to 490 times; instead, He’s emphasizing that we should forgive so often that we don’t even count. How many times has Jesus forgiven you? Too many to remember, I’m sure. God doesn’t keep score, so why should we?
When you see someone doing wrong, approach them in a loving manner. Jesus said in Luke 17:3, “Be on your guard! If your brother sins, rebuke him; and if he repents, forgive him.” When confronting someone, do so with kindness. Harsh words may cause them to reject what you’re saying, but a gentle approach can open their heart to listen. If they repent, forgive them, let go of the offense, and move forward.
Confessing our sins and forgiving others is vital. When we confess and forgive, we are cleansed from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9). How can we be righteous if we harbor sin? We are made righteous by the blood of Jesus when we accept His forgiveness. Through His righteousness, we gain eternal life (John 3:16).
Forgiving someone is a powerful way to show love. When you forgive, you choose not to seek revenge or hold a grudge; instead, you release the offense. This act of forgiveness shows that you care more about the person than what they did to you. As Peter reminds us in 1 Peter 4:8, “Above all, keep fervent in your love for one another, because love covers a multitude of sins.” When we love, we reflect the righteousness of God. True love, rooted in God’s love, is the key to experiencing the fullness of His grace.
Read 1 John 4:7–10
God is the perfect example of love. His love for us was so great that He sent His Son to die for our sins (John 3:16). Jesus declared that there is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for his friends (John 15:13). Jesus, who was with the Father from the beginning (John 1:1), left His throne to live a sinless life on earth and die for all. Whoever accepts Him as Lord and Savior will inherit eternal life. This is the ultimate expression of love—undeserved yet freely given.
There is no excuse not to love others. If we do not love, we do not know God, and without love, we cannot be righteous. Without the righteousness of Jesus, we cannot experience eternity in heaven with our Creator. It’s that simple. Romans 12:10 encourages us, “Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor.” Children are to love and honor their parents, siblings, and neighbors—everyone.
What is love? Paul defines love in 1 Corinthians 13. Read 1 Corinthians 13:4–8a
This is the love that should be present in every family. When each member loves one another in this way, the family will be filled with joy and happiness, reflecting the love of Christ to the world.
Next time, we will explore the importance of praying for one another.
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