We all love to be forgiven. Forgiving others? Easier said than done.
Those who know Christ rejoice in the forgiveness and mercy he showed us through the sacrifice of the cross. We too are called to forgive, but too often we get comfortable with our lack of forgiveness, instead holding on to old hurts like they are weapons to save for the right opportunity.
Today and this weekend, pray for the grace to see from whom you are consciously or unconsciously withholding forgiveness. You may be surprised. Perhaps you are still holding on to anger from childhood. Are there hurts and disappointments that still bubble to the surface?
In him we have redemption by his blood, the forgiveness of transgressions, in accord with the riches of his grace that he lavished upon us. Ephesians 1:7-8
A lack of forgiveness keeps YOU in bondage. Kneel before the Lord and pray. Start by forgiving yourself for your weaknesses and failings. Then let go of old hurts such as lack of love, disappointments, hurtful words, repeated absences, etc. caused by members within your family. Rotate through your family members: mother, father, sisters, brothers, spouse, children, etc. Pray “Lord, I forgive ________ for __________. I release this old hurt to you.”
Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, our kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as in heaven. Give us today our daily bread; and forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors; and do not subject us to the final test, but deliver us from the evil one. If you forgive others their transgressions, your heavenly Father will forgive you. But if you do not forgive others, neither will your Father forgive your transgressions. Matthew 6:9-15
Break the chains. Find peace in your heart. Pray for your family and those of others.
Peace, Joy, and Love,
Janet
Help others out of bondage. Pass it on.
