A Devotional on Colossians 3:13 for October 15, 2026
“Bear with one another and forgive any complaint you may have against someone else. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” — Colossians 3:13
Living closely with others gives us daily opportunities to practice grace. Words can wound, expectations can go unmet, and small frustrations can grow into lasting resentment. Into these ordinary struggles, God speaks a loving command: bear with one another and forgive.
Bearing with someone means making room for their weaknesses while remembering our own need for patience. We are all people still being shaped by God’s grace. A gentle response, a willingness to listen, or the choice to overlook a minor irritation can help keep bitterness from taking root.
Yet some hurts require more than patience. They call for forgiveness, and Paul directs our attention to its foundation: “Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” We begin by remembering the mercy we have received in Christ. His forgiveness was costly, freely given, and rooted in love. As that grace shapes our hearts, we learn to extend mercy to others.
Forgiveness does not mean calling wrongdoing acceptable or pretending that pain has disappeared. Trust may require time, honesty, and changed behavior to rebuild. We can pursue accountability and maintain wise boundaries while surrendering our desire for revenge to God. When hurt returns to mind, we can bring it to Him again, asking for strength to keep resentment from governing our words and actions.
Today, consider where God may be inviting you to practice this grace. Perhaps there is a complaint to release, a harsh response to soften, or a conversation to approach with humility. Take that next faithful step, trusting the Lord who has already shown you mercy.
Lord Jesus, thank You for forgiving me with such generous love. Help me bear patiently with others and release the resentment I am holding. Give me wisdom, honesty, and a heart willing to forgive as You have forgiven me. Amen.
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