The Freedom of Forgiveness, Our Lenten Journey
During Lent 2017 we would like to probe the act of forgiveness. This week’s question is:
Why is it so easy to hold a grudge?
When you’re hurt by someone you love and trust, you might become angry, sad or confused. If you dwell on hurtful events or situations, grudges filled with resentment, vengeance and hostility can take root. If you allow negative feelings to crowd out positive feelings, you might find yourself swallowed up by your own bitterness or sense of injustice.
What are the effects of holding a grudge?
If you’re unforgiving, you might:
- Bring anger and bitterness into every relationship and new experience
- Become so wrapped up in the wrong that you can’t enjoy the present
- Become depressed or anxious
- Feel that your life lacks meaning or purpose, or that you’re at odds with your spiritual beliefs
- Lose valuable and enriching connectedness with others
How do I reach a state of forgiveness?
Forgiveness is a commitment to a process of change. To begin, you might:
- Consider the value of forgiveness and its importance in your life at a given time
- Reflect on the facts of the situation, how you’ve reacted, and how this combination has affected your life, health and well-being
- Actively choose to forgive the person who’s offended you, when you’re ready
- Move away from your role as victim and release the control and power the offending person and situation have had in your life
As you let go of grudges, you’ll no longer define your life by how you’ve been hurt. You might even find compassion and understanding.
What does the Bible Say?
I John 4: 21: The apostle John tells us that Christ gave us this command: whoever loves God must love his brother also. And don’t forget “and forgive us our debts and we FORGIVE OUR DEBTORS”.
Tips on Prayer:
Prayer is central to the Christian experience. A Christian life is not sustainable without it, because growth in the Christian life is simply not possible without prayer. It is not enough simply to pray when we feel like it. Prayer requires a daily commitment. Get to know the Shepherd. Stop trying to put together a master plan for your life and for your happiness. Instead, seek out the Master’s plan for your life and for your happiness. Allow him to lead you, to guide you, to be your companion, your friend, your coach, and your mentor. He will lead you to green pastures. He will restore your soul. And your cup will overflow!
Coming next week in our Forgiveness series: What happens if I can’t forgive someone?
Written by Donna Weinberg of the Panther Valley Ecumenical Church
All Bible Quotes are from Good News Bible (TEV)
