Proverbs 17:9

Proverbs 17:9

Love prospers when a fault is forgiven, but dwelling on it separates close friends.

God, in his graciousness, has given us wisdom literature to instruct us on living well. And because much of life deals with relationships, Proverbs gives tidbits of wisdom for how to handle conflict with others. This particular verse contrasts a wise and foolish reaction to conflict. A wise person forgives, which inevitably allows love to flourish. But a foolish person dwells on another’s faults and risks losing the friendship. Does this verse relate to any of your current relationships? Do you tend to be quick to forgive, or do you dwell on how others have hurt you? Forgiveness is not a feeling but a choice. Choose to stop dwelling on other’s faults and to forgive instead.