Time to Forgive: Finding Freedom by Letting Go
Living Free Every Day®
A ministry of LivingFree.org
Today's Scripture
"Make allowance for each other's faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others." Colossians 3:13 NLT
Thoughts for Today
Have you experienced a setback or disappointment in your life? If so, have you been able to move on, or is your life still plagued by the pain?
Perhaps you were hurt badly by someone close to you. You may have experienced abuse as a child or the betrayal of a spouse in later years. Whatever form your trauma took, it involved another person.
This week we will be discussing forgiveness. Bitterness and anger toward the one who hurt you can destroy your happiness and peace. God wants to prosper you and give you hope for the future, but unforgiveness can serve as a stone wall, blocking your ability to experience the freedom he has for you.
Consider this …
If healing is to take place, it is vital that you are honest with yourself … and with God. Forgiveness requires facing the truth.
If you are harboring resentment and bitterness, ask God to help you forgive. To forgive means to turn loose, to let go, to release. Let go of the anger. Let go of the unforgiveness. Let go of the hurt and shame. Be willing to forgive—even though the individual may not deserve your forgiveness—just as Christ forgives us, even though we don't deserve it. It's called grace.
What better time to let go of past grievances and begin to experience the fullness of God's freedom? This kind of forgiveness is not easy. Don't try to do it alone. God loves you and he will help you.
Prayer
Father, thank you for Jesus. Thank you that even though I didn't deserve it, he died to pay the price for my sins. I've been carrying unforgiveness toward this one who hurt me for much too long. Please forgive me and help me to forgive. In Jesus' name …
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©Living Free 2020. Living Free is a registered trademark. Living Free Every Day® devotionals may be reproduced for personal use. When reproduced to share with others, please acknowledge the source as Living Free, Chattanooga, TN, www.LivingFree.org. Must have written permission to use in any format to be sold. Permission may be requested by sending an e-mail to [email protected]
