2-23-2024
This past weekend we talked about overcoming bitterness, and I said that the only way to truly overcome is to extend forgiveness to those who hurt you. I also said that forgiveness can be a process. We prayed together on Sunday for many of you as you asked God to do a deep work in your heart and to help you extend forgiveness. But before we left, I also prayed that you would be able to forgive on Sunday, then again on Monday and Tuesday and…..well……you get the picture. I’m not going to ride this horse into the ground, but it’s Wednesday, so just one more mention. The Apostle Paul tells us this:
Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. Ephesians 4:32 (NIV)
I think we all know that God calls us to forgive others, so let me offer a few steps that you can take that will help you let go of your pain, hurt, or bitterness.
First: Recognize that no one is perfect.
When we’ve been hurt, we tend to lose our perspective about the person who offended us. But we need to remember that we are all imperfect people.
Second: Relinquish your right to get even.
This is a hard one because, as I said on Sunday, the natural human response is to get even. It’s not the right response, but it’s the one that shows up first. Instead, trust God to confront the person who hurt you and trust Him to work things out for you. Choose compassion over your desire to retaliate.
Third: Respond to evil with good.
Getting even only brings you down to the other person’s level. Take the high road instead. The Bible says to treat your enemies with kindness. It’s nearly impossible to do this on your own. That’s why you need the love of Jesus to fill you up.
Finally: Refocus on God’s plan for your life.
Did they hurt you? Yes. But when you are focused on the people who hurt you, you’re actually letting them control your life. When you forgive them, you find the freedom to refocus on God’s purpose for your life.
Don’t go another day with resentment, bitterness, and unforgiveness in your heart. Begin making these choices, and move on to live the life God created you to live.
Here’s what I know: I know that YOU CAN DO IT!!! I’m praying for you!!!