Terry Rogers
Faith, Family, Fun
Freedom In Forgiveness
Forgiving someone that hurt you, can be one of the hardest, but most rewarding things that Jesus asked us to do.
When it comes to the act of forgiveness, here are a few things to keep in mind.
1. Forgiveness Is A CHOICE
Forgiveness is not an emotion, it’s a decision!
Peter asked Jesus in Matthew 18:21, “Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Up to seven times?” Jesus responded with these words, “I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven.”
Hopefully, you won’t be hurt by the same person 490 times. (Do the math :)) I don’t think Jesus is saying we should keep track of how many times you forgive. I believe He’s teaching the principle, that you will have to continually make the choice to forgive. When those thoughts try to come back in your mind, decide to forgive again.
2. Forgiveness frees YOU
Many times we hold things against others, because we were truly a victim. That hurts, and it’s NOT fair! However, here’s the truth. Even if we we’re not at fault, our failure to forgive, imprisons us.
Forgiveness doesn’t mean that you are approving of someones actions, or denying a wrongdoing. It doesn’t mean that you have to trust, or reconcile with that person. It DOES mean, that you are not going to hold bitterness in your heart, and allow that person or situation, to keep you bound.
I personally know people that were in bondage from past hurt that happened decades ago. This affected their marriage, physical body, emotional well being, & Spiritual journey. After choosing to forgive, they were freed!
3. Forgiveness frees OTHERS
Each of us have been a victim. We’ve also been the one that hurt another. With that failure, sometimes the guilt of our wrongdoing can put us in chains.
When you forgive someone of their wrong, that frees them up to start over. Hopefully learn from the mistake, and not go down that road again.
Ephesians 4:32 says, And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God in Christ forgave you.
I’m thankful that Jesus didn’t hold my failures against me.
Forgiveness Brings Freedom…
It feels good to be free!
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Terry Rogers 