It was almost comical. Yesterday I sat clicking away on the “forgiveness” chapter in my first official manuscript. (Yes, official.) And I couldn’t help but overhear the conversation at the next booth.
As I wrote things like “Revenge felt right…but bitterness poisons the soul,” and, “Remembering God’s grace over me put me in the heart-position to forgive,” the woman at the next table detailed the betrayal of another to her friend. Her friend responded with scowling words, “I would never forgive something like that. Never.”
I couldn’t help but shake my head.
The kind of forgiveness Jesus commands flies in the face of culture. It flies in the face of our emotions. But truly letting go of the offenses of others to the only One who judges perfectly, frees us. Forgiveness frees us. Unforgiveness binds us with heavy chains — chains of condemnation. And that’s a high price to pay.
For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.
Matthew 6:14-15
Our world cannot grasp radical forgiveness. The world has limits set and rights staked. But once we experience His great grace for ourselves then we realize, “Who am I to judge.”
I never said anything to the two ladies. I mean, I was downright eavesdropping. But I prayed for them. I pray that one day they experience the freedom of a canceled debt because that’s when life begins.
Fill me, Lord…
Share a time when you chose to forgive in spite of your feelings. How did it free your soul?
This is so true, Lara. It’s a subject I speak of as a motivational speaker – probably because I am often convicted of the need to forgive. The call to forgive. The words commanding us to love “even our enemies”. And this is beyond hard. In fact, I think it’s Holy Spirit hard. Meaning we can’t do this in our own strength. But we can do it in His. I also think there is a next step – the “how” to forgive. We know we should, but we don’t know exactly what that means. I have learned that forgiveness does not necessarily mean we have to let them know we have forgiven them – opening the door for further issues. I also don’t think it means we have to continue the relationship. Having a friend who hurts you continuously, can be forgiven, but it doesn’t mean you have to move in with her. I think many of us get caught up in just how we forgive.
Just my thoughts. Thanks for sharing Lara!
(WARNING: SHAMELESS PLUG) Yes, I completely agree! We so need help with the how. That’s what I address in that chapter of my upcoming book. (I warned you!) Thanks for your words, friend.
I have been thinking about forgiveness a lot lately as well. It is so true that holding a grudge does nothing but bind YOU. I praying that I can live more in “forgiveness mode” so that my children can see a good example.
Lara, I think we’re on the same wavelength. (http://sjlmwh.blogspot.com) Thank you!