By: Joshua Adinoyi

Christians have been advised to always forgive when they are offended by others.

The Pastor in Charge of the Zion Hills Church of All Nations (ZHCOAN) Ajaokuta, Dr. Kolawole Adebisi, gave the advice during the first Sunday Service in the month of December 2021 of the Church in Ajaokuta Local Government Area of Kogi State.

Dr. Adebisi said unforgiveness has negative impact on human health, calling on men not hold grudges against others.

“Research has shown that 61% of cancer patients has issues of unforgiveness

“Aside Cancer, Excess Anger, inferiority complex, bitterness, increased depression, constant worries, blood pressure, other heart related diseases are also traceable to unforgiveness, so forgive” he said.

The Clergyman explained that man’s relationship with God can only be smooth and profitable when they cultivate a forgiving spirit, charging them to strengthen their service to God by forgiving others of all offenses irrespective of the magnitude, to enable them enjoy the blessings of God.

“When you forgive, the doors of heaven will be opened unto you but if you don’t forgive fellow humans, God said in His word that your sins won’t be forgiven as well

“Sometimes you are keeping grudges against someone and the moment you set your eyes on the person, your heart beats and the person who is not even aware is smiling and you think you are hurting the person? Why not tell him/her about his/her offense, settle it amicably and let it go!”

He pointed out that there was need for men to also learn to forgive themselves, stressing that such will help them live peacefully with others in the society.

“If you allow the pains of your past to hunt you, you will hurt others either consciously or unconsciously, so always forgive yourself of past errors

“It is easier to blame others for causing you pain, however the depth of the pain is decided by you – the receiver

“Don’t only forgive, also forget because the slogan of I CAN FORGIVE BUT CANNOT FORGET is like partial forgiveness

“Forgiveness is not a choice, it is a commandment when you study Luke 11:4, you will understand better”

Dr. Adebisi prayed God to grant believers and Nigerians a large heart to always forgive others, saying such will help them seek the good of others at all times.

The Church service featured Word, Songs and Prayers.