Forgiveness as a lifestyle...

            Forgiveness.  I know it’s a tough one.  Take a deep breath, and read on…peace is at hand.  Taking a journey down memory lane isn’t always pleasant because there are times of hurt and pain.  Times of blatant disrespect, disregard, and downright hurt.  Times of loneliness when someone, like maybe your parents, should have been there for you, but they weren’t.  We’ve all been the target of despicable words and outrageous actions.  As we sit and simmer on this negativity, it only gets worse though.  Harboring unforgiveness puts us in a box and really gives the person who hurt us all the power.  It’s a slippery slope.  Now we’re suspicious, protective, and unwilling to trust. 

So how do we forgive and forget?  We have to give it to God and trust Him to heal our hearts.  Don’t seek revenge; it’s impotent.  Don’t let hatred rise up; it can be devastating.  Don’t live in bitterness; it can sprout up from within and affect your whole life and your relationships with your family and friends.  For your health and as a testimony, let it go and give it to God. 

Matthew 6:14-15

For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.  But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.

We want forgiveness, and we need to give it, too.  God knows best.  Trust Him, and forgive.  Move on to a bright and joyful future.  Give someone a second chance, and you’ll get a second chance when you need one. 

Still having trouble letting go?  Pray for those who’ve hurt you.  Whether they hurt you on accident or intentionally, God can open their eyes and lead them to restore the relationship with you.  If they hurt you intentionally, they need God’s help.  More than likely their actions stemmed from their own hurt.  God can heal their heart.  Will you be repaid?  It’s probably impossible to directly repay you.  But Romans 8:28 says that all things work together for the good of those who love the Lord…God’s got your back!