The Only Bible They Read (Proverbs 22:3)

Take cover

Solomon says the prudent see danger and take refuge, but the simple walk right into it. Forgiving someone doesn't mean standing in front of the same machine gun every day. Paul adds in 2 Corinthians 6:14 that we shouldn't be bound to unbelievers.

Different goals

When a fellow believer wrongs you, the goal is restoration, because they're family. When an unbeliever wrongs you, the goal is to show them Christ. You may be the only Bible they ever read. You can't expect them to live by a standard they don't hold, so you forgive, bless them, and leave the rest to God.

Do I tell them?

Someone asked whether you need to tell a person you've forgiven them. DeWayne's answer depended on who they are. With an unbeliever, you don't even have to speak to them. That forgiveness is for you. It's a release, and God handles them.

Try this

• Bless someone who's wronged you, in prayer or in person.
• Read Matthew 10:16 and ask what wise and innocent looks like for you.