Why is love and forgiveness difficult for Christians?

Christians often struggle with love and forgiveness because our natural inclination is toward justice and retribution rather than mercy. The flesh clings to the letter of the law and desires to hold others to account for their wrongs. In the sermon, the preacher highlights how the self-righteous nature of humanity leads to a harsh perspective, often ignoring the grace shown to us by Christ. This is why, as exemplified in Luke 17:5, the disciples plead for an increase in faith — recognizing that such forgiveness can only come from a heart transformed by the grace of God. Without the Spirit's help, we cannot fully embrace the call to love and forgive as Christ did.