“To err is human, to forgive divine.” ~Alexander Pope
It is not easy to forgive. When someone hurts us deeply, unexpectedly, unreasonably, it’s natural for us to be stuck wondering how we could ever bring ourselves to forgive.
It’s the employer that overlooked your contribution. It’s the inconsiderate people everywhere. It’s the insufferable person who wants everything from you but offers nothing in return. Sometimes you may even think you are justified in not forgiving them.
Yet, Eph 4:32 calls is to “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” It reminds us that forgiveness is not an option. It is a call. It reflects the grace we have received from God.
But, it’s so painful! Acknowledge your hurt. Do not suppress it. Admit to God you feel forgiveness is impossible in your own strength. Bring to God the pain and the struggle to forgive. Ask God to help you see that evil, despicable, and good for nothing person through his eyes. To forgive does not mean excusing the wrong or pretending it did not happen. It means releasing the hold it has on you!
What are some practical steps that helps? Write a letter expressing your feelings (you do not have to send it if you do not want to.) Putting it down words helps you to process it. Surrender those feelings to God. Choose to pray for the person (your enemy) that hurt you. Ask God to bless them. Over time, as we obediently submit to God, we can loosen the grip of bitterness.
Forgiveness is a process, it is not a one-time event. Lean on God’s strength, take it one step at a time. You will find freedom. You will find peace.
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