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
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