How can I forgive [Day 3]
I wish I could tell you that forgiveness is easy. Just forgive already. Just let it go. But it’s not that easy. Especially when those who hurt us are the people close to us. It becomes very difficult to forgive. But I have some good news. It can be done.
Take your time to process and acknowledge that you have been hurt by someone. Don’t put it on a back burner and make it seem as if it never happened. But while you’re doing so, also remember that the Bible says to not let the sun go down on our anger. Ephesians 4:26. Meaning, don’t let your anger last too long a time.
Remember that we are not all perfect, and be empathetic to the person who has wronged you. The Bible says in James 3:2 that "For we all stumble many times. If anyone does not stumble in word, he is a perfect man, able to bridle also his whole body. So clearly, as imperfect as we are, we will wrong each other. Also in Matthew 7:12 we are cautioned to do unto others, what we will have them do unto us; that we may also need forgiveness one day, and there be empathetic when we are on the other side of the fence.
Remember also that the Bible says we should continue to put up with one another in Colossians 3:13. Meaning, we don’t have to be quick to get upset at the very least thing someone does. We should learn to overlook certain minor faults of others.
Remembering the benefits of forgiveness can help us to forgive. Recognizing that, forgiveness sets us free and brings us inner peace and happiness. Finally and most importantly, we should remember that, forgiving others is a major key to receiving forgiveness from God as we previously mentioned in Matthew 7:12. Are you ready to forgive?
Prayer Lord Jesus, as I have learned how to forgive, help me, to allow this lesson to become a part of me: to forgive easily and freely in Jesus’s name. Amen!