Forgiveness can be a profound, transformative experience. When someone hurts us, it’s completely natural to feel the urge for revenge. We think to ourselves, “Just wait! I will get even,” or even wish bad things upon them. But, as followers of faith, we must remember that harboring anger does not align with Biblical teachings.
A Biblical Perspective on Forgiveness
The scripture in Romans 12:14 advises us to “Bless those who persecute you.” While this might sound unreasonable, it sheds light on a vital aspect of forgiveness: it’s not about the person who hurt us; it’s about us.
Choosing to forgive is a means to liberate ourselves from the shackles of bitterness. In choosing forgiveness, we do not excuse the hurt inflicted upon us; rather, we acknowledge that holding onto anger only keeps us as prisoners.
The Choice to Forgive
I, like many, struggled with the concept of forgiveness while growing up. I believed that holding onto my resentment would protect me from further hurt. But as I matured, I learned an essential truth: Forgiveness is not about the offender; it’s about the ones who have been harmed.
Reflecting on my past, I recalled a time when I was deeply hurt by someone. The reality was that the person who had wronged me likely didn’t care if I forgave them or not. Instead, it was my unforgiveness that kept me confined in a prison of bitterness and pain.
Finding Freedom Through Forgiveness
True liberation occurred when I made the conscious decision to forgive. It’s crucial to understand that I didn’t feel an immediate sense of forgiveness; there was a part of me convinced that they didn’t deserve it. Yet, I chose to forgive anyway. That deliberate act became a catalyst for healing in my life.
Forgiveness creates space for healing. Bitterness can destroy us, draining our emotional energy and affecting our wellbeing. Conversely, when we choose to forgive those who have caused us pain, we gift ourselves the opportunity for growth and healing.
As the saying goes, “When we pray blessings over those who have wronged us, we too are blessed.” In doing so, we honor God’s purpose in our lives and trust Him to work in those who may have hurt us.
Making the Choice to Bless
In conclusion, we must remind ourselves: Bless them; don’t curse them. The road to forgiveness may not be easy, but it is a choice, a journey toward freedom that each of us can embark on.
Choosing to forgive is not always a one-time event but a continuous commitment to walking in the freedom that God has for us. So today, I encourage you to take that leap of faith. Choose forgiveness and unlock the healing power it holds.
Pastor Tricia's Ramblings 
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