One of the things that Jesus makes clear in Mt 18 and other passages is this; if you’re a believer, forgiveness of others is not optional for you if you want the blessing of God in your life!
Matthew 18:21-22 (NLT) Then Peter came to Him and asked, “Lord, how often should I forgive someone who sins against me? Seven times?” “No!” Jesus replied, “seventy times seven!”
The JEWS believed you only had to forgive someone 3 times and that was it… (3 strikes – you’re out) Peter thought he was really doing something special to offer to forgive them 7 times! But Jesus told him – You’re Not Even Close – try 70 x 7
In other words, Jesus was saying we must make forgiveness – love in action – our lifestyle
You just keep on forgiving others …..because He keeps on offering forgiveness to you !
Colossians 3:13 states…. Get along with each other, and forgive each other. If someone does wrong to you, forgive that person because the Lord forgave you.
I’m not talking about something that’s easy, but forgiveness is something that will set you free !
When I think about all the wrong things I’ve done…..The people I’ve hurt…..The sin in my life…..I’m blown away to realize how much God’s forgiven me! One key to offering genuine forgiveness to others is remembering how much you’ve been forgiven!
The fastest way to experience the healing power of Jesus Christ in your life is to offer to others – what He continues to offer to you & me = forgiveness!
I’m not trying to oversimplify this, but how do I apply this in my life?
When You’ve Wronged Someone Else
Don’t try to excuse your actions
Don’t blame someone else for your mistakes
Admit what you did that was wrong
Ask God to forgive you
Ask anyone you’ve wronged to forgive you
Private sins – require private confession
Public sins – require public confession
Make restitution if necessary
Regardless of their response – walk away CLEAN !
When You Have Been Wronged
Admit you’ve been hurt – wronged
Ask God to help you release them – to let it go
Forgive the person who has offended you whether they ask for forgiveness or not
BJ Rutledge 
I believe, other than accepting Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior, that forgiveness has been the biggest life changing experience in my christain walk. I denied it. I ran from it. I hated the thought of forgiving mainly because I misunderstood it. Once i realized how to do it and made steps towards offering and asking for forgiveness, God blessed me even more than I could have ever imagined. I love the freedom I have in Christ Jesus. Thank you pastor BJ and all the staff at GFC for being such faithful servants for our Lord and for making a difference in the life of so many.