Why do we NOT forgive?
- Built up pride
- Remaining offense
- Human nature, selfishness
HOW do we forgive?
- A LOT of prayer
- Forgiveness is a CHOICE
- Be honest with yourself and seek truth
- Get to the source of the pain and take it to the Lord
- Create healthy boundaries if needed
- Pray for patience, it doesn't always happen overnight!
Sometimes it can be hard to recognize why we aren’t offering forgivness when we are hurt. After we work through that inital pain, it is helpful to take a step back from the situation and evaluate why we feel the way we do. This could be due to built up pride, being offended, or selfishness. When we find ourselves in these moments, spend time in prayer, and ask the Lord to reveal the source of the pain. Remember, forvieness is a choice. Though your frustration may not ease immediately, working through it with God will result in freedom.
Have you ever been afriad to forgive others in fear you would be hurt again?
What can you do to better condition your heart to be more forgiving?
“For you, O Lord, are good and forgiving, abounding in steadfast love to all who call upon you.” Psalm 86:5