2. As we are apt to be mistaken in our judgment with regard to the general character of persons, so are we equally so with regard to their evil intentions. An offence is taken from something that has been said or done to us. Now what has been said or done, may not have been the result of either ill-will or malice. It may have been the result of a wrong judgment they had hastily formed, or from some excited state of mind they may have been led to say, or act as they did. Such considerations should have a tendency to cool our resentment, especially when we reflect that we are equally liable to be influenced in the same way And besides, they may have seriously considered their conduct, and have mourned and wept bitterly in secret on account of it.
Another reason why Christians should cultivate a forgiving spirit, is—
3. God's forgiving mercy towards them.
