Scripture: Ephesians 4:31-32 (NIV)
“Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”
Forgiveness is something I’ve wrestled with in my own life. Look, I’ve been there—hurt, disappointed, and holding on to anger because letting go felt impossible. And in some areas, I’ll admit I’m still working through it. So, when I share this with you, know that we’re on this journey together.
The Process of Forgiveness
Forgiveness doesn’t happen overnight, and it’s rarely easy. It’s a process, and that’s okay. Here are some steps I’ve found helpful along the way:
- Acknowledging the Hurt: We can’t heal what we don’t confront. Naming the pain is not a sign of weakness; it’s the first step toward freedom.
- Understanding God’s Call to Forgive: I’ve had to remind myself time and again that forgiveness is about my obedience to God and not about excusing what was done to me. It’s about reflecting the grace He shows me every day.
- Releasing the Offense: Letting go doesn’t mean the hurt didn’t matter. It means refusing to let it control your life. For me, that often looks like asking God to take what I can’t carry anymore.
- Seeking God’s Strength: Some hurts feel impossible to forgive on our own. That’s where prayer comes in. I’ve learned to lean into God’s power when my own strength isn’t enough.
The Benefits of Forgiving Others
I’ve seen how forgiveness has started to change me, even when it hasn’t changed the other person. Here’s what I’ve experienced so far:
- Spiritual Freedom: When I let go, it feels like I can breathe again. Resentment doesn’t just weigh down your heart; it weighs down your spirit.
- Better Health: I’ve noticed that when I’m not consumed by anger, I feel lighter, less stressed, and more at peace.
- Restored Relationships: Forgiveness has helped me reconnect with people I thought I’d never be close to again.
Reflecting on Ephesians 4:31-32
Paul’s words hit me every time I read them. Bitterness and anger are easy to hold onto, but they do more harm than good. When I think about how Jesus forgave me—not just once but over and over—it gives me the strength to try again, even when it’s hard.
Moving Forward
Forgiveness is about progress, not perfection. If you’re struggling to let go, know that you’re not alone. I’m still learning to release some things myself. But each step we take brings us closer to the peace and joy God wants for us.
As we head into the new year, let’s make forgiveness part of the journey. It’s not about forgetting or pretending it didn’t hurt—it’s about finding freedom and trusting God to handle the rest. Together, we can step into this season with hearts that are lighter and more open to the love and grace God has for us.
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