Day 7

Who doesn’t love to receive forgiveness? To be forgiven a fault or a debt provokes thankfulness, hopefulness, and gratitude for another chance. But giving forgiveness to others isn’t always as easy. Especially when someone hurts you in a deep or traumatic way.

How can God ask us to forgive them, or even more, to pray for them? This can feel impossible.

Did you know that the forgiveness that we extend as Christians is not only for those who hurt us, but it is also for us?

When confronted with the daunting task of forgiving, one of the first things that comes to mind is “How much forgiveness do they deserve?” Possibly none. But a better question to ask is “How much freedom do I want?”

Forgiveness is at the center of the heart of God. Where would we be today without the gift of God's forgiveness that was showered upon us? I thank God that while I was still sinning He gave His life for me.

Where do we start?

Be honest with God about negative feelings towards the person who has hurt you. Honesty creates intimacy. 

Pray. Ask for strength, ask for your heart to change, and ask for God to move in that person's life.

Forgive by faith, not by feelings. Choose to release the offender to God even before your feelings catch up.

Set Boundaries. Forgiving isn’t allowing someone to hurt you or your family more.

Embrace the healing journey. Forgiveness is a process, not always an instant fix. It can be painful, like spiritual surgery. But surgery is far better than living with the spiritual cancer of unforgiveness, and pain is part of the healing process.

Reflection:

Who do you need to forgive in your life?

What step can you take towards God to allow Him to bring healing to you?

What boundaries do you need to set?

Action Step:

Write down the offense and the person who wronged you.

Say a prayer for that person that you need to forgive.

Prayer:

Dear Heavenly Father, I pray that you would give me the strength to forgive as you have forgiven me. I pray for my offender that they would encounter your love and forgiveness today, and that you would change their heart to be more like yours, even as you are changing my heart to forgive the way you do. In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Bible Verses:

“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

 Romans 5:8 NIV

“And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.” Mark 11:25 NIV