Forgiveness is an ongoing process. I am afraid we never conquer this challenge of it or even that it becomes easier when we are afforded much practice. It is a basically a case by case decision we all must make or don't make. The process is the mental and/or emotional path we choose whenever we are offended or hurt by another. We ponder the criticalness, we determine the weight of burden, we think of how bad the offense makes and feel and/or look; and, every time we are crossed we go through it all over again as we decide how much it will take for me to get over this.
Sometimes we can decide in an instant that we will forgive someone because we love that person so much or we don't deem the act severe enough to want to hold on to it or our right to be angry. Other times the seed of resentment grows roots and nestles itself so deep in our hearts that is feels nearly impossible to forgive. Furthermore, when we are challenged with the same transgression over and over again, we may completely give up our will to forgive the offender altogether. But, if we can will not to forgive just like that, then we can also will ourselves to forgive in an instant. I know it's not that simple; however, it is important that we see no circumstance as unforgivable.
Are some of the acts committed towards us heinous and unbearable? Absolutely! Do I deserve the opportunity to be hurt and angry? Most definitely! So, why is it not okay to choose to hold on to resentment and choose not to forgive? Because, you create total bondage for yourself and all those around you. You choose to be powerless versus powerful, which means that you continuously remain tied to a hurtful past, a certain person, and particular situation and block every new opportunity for happiness, freedom, joy and peace. Hopefully, you want to be free more than you want to be in prison. Again, it's a choice, in fact it's your right, but you must be the one to exercise it. You must want it bad enough to work for it. Are you willing?
Lord, we pray for the will power to walk in freedom. It is said in your Word that Your strength is made perfect in our weakness; so, Father, where we feel like we cannot forgive, we ask that you help us. My sisters and I want happiness, joy, and peace. So, we ask that you give us the mind of Christ, who understood human nature and didn't take it personally when others wronged Him. Help us make the right choice, the choice to forgive even if it means we have to separate ourselves from another; still give us the right heart and renew the right Spirit within us. We are powerful not powerless, victors not victims, and conquerors not losers. We know that we win when we forgive. Help us, Father, I pray! Amen!
#IAmMySistersKeeper
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