There are a lot of factors in our decision-making, words and actions. Ignorance, weariness, rashness, carelessness, thoughtlessness and fear are only a few factors. We say that to err is human, and we would all agree with that. However, to blame someone or something else for our errors seems to be even more human. Adam and Eve show the all-too-normal human thought when they were confronted with their error (Genesis 3:10-13).

The other part of that saying is, “to forgive is divine.” That does not come easily to us, but it is something our Creator demands of us (Matthew 6:12-14). Jesus said to become perfect as God is perfect (Matthew 5:48). God forgives when a man truly repents. It helps to remember that we have erred and needed to be forgiven by others and by God. Knowing that, we can begin to practice leaving room for the errors others make. Even if a formal forgiveness is not possible or needed, putting revenge out of our hearts is healthy for us. Some things are best left in God’s hands—just as our personal sins have been left there. This is a big, but important subject.