John 11:26 (MSG) …when you assume the posture of prayer,
remember that it’s not all asking. If you have anything against someone,
forgive—only then will your heavenly Father be inclined to also wipe your slate
clean of sins.
Forgiveness is not an easy task, especially when the wounds
are deep. There are some hurts that we think we have overcome, only to have a
memory or action rip the scab off of the healing wound. Memory is a tricky
thing when it comes to offenses. Often the one hurt or offended struggles,
sometimes for years, with the pain inflicted, only to realize that the one
responsible for the pain has no memory of it. The lesson? If you are someone
confronted with a past hurt and no memory of what you have done, acknowledge
with sincerity the hurt you caused and ask for forgiveness – not only from
them, but from God for hurting one of His children. Be aware in future
situations of how your actions impact the lives of others. If you are the one
hurt in an offense, escape the pain of your self-imprisonment by setting the
offender free – truly free. Learn that in future situations you should never
assume someone knows your pain. Settle issues quickly and forgive with the
forgiveness Christ’s sacrifice offers you. Freedom in Christ is something we
all seek – yet unforgiveness keeps us in shackles. Whatever your role, whether
offender or offended, acknowledge the chains and let the sacrifice of Christ
bring true freedom to all.
Forgiving Father, I need the clean slate offered by Jesus.
Please help me to be very aware of hurts I may have caused without realizing. I
ask for Your forgiveness in bringing pain to those You love. Help me to
overcome past hurts and truly forgive with the forgiveness of Jesus. Today, I
choose freedom. Let that be my choice every day. I love You, Amen
Posts
No comments:
Post a Comment