Question:  Dear Greg,

            I understand scriptural teaching about forgiveness (70 times 7, etc.), but how many times should you ask forgiveness?  I was guilty of participating in a situation which embarrassed a co-worker.  I have asked him on several occasions for forgiveness, without a response.  I pray often for the Lord to soften his heart, but so far nothing has happened.  I appreciate any thoughts on this matter.

            Dave

Answer:  Dear Dave,

            It is, of course, possible to ask someone for forgiveness without ever hearing them forgive you.  In such a case it is not necessary to “badger” such an individual—after all, ultimately God does the forgiving.  It is, according to the Bible, important to ask for forgiveness, to express sorrow at one’s wrongdoing, etc.  But the act of a person we sinned against/offended refusing to acknowledge us does not mean God does not forgive us.

            In Christ,

            Greg Albrecht