Learning Forgiveness

“The Lord hates what evil people do, but he loves those who do what is right.” Proverbs 15:9

In The Applause of Heaven, Max Lucado writes this devotion. Perhaps the wound is old. A parent abused you. A teacher slighted you. A mate betrayed you….And you are angry. Or perhaps the wound is fresh. The friend who owes you money just drove by in his new car. The boss who hired you with promises of promotions has forgotten how to pronounce your name….And you are hurt. Part of you is broken, and the other part is bitter. Part of you wants to cry and part of you wants to fight….There is a fire burning in your heart. It’s the fire of anger…..And you are now left with a decision. “Do I put the fire out or heat it up? Do I get over it or get even? Do I release it or resent it? Do I let my hurts heal or do I let hurt turn into hate?” Unfaithfulness is wrong. Revenge is bad. But the worst part of all is that, without forgiveness, bitterness is all that is left. Those are difficult questions and choices. To learn to forgive will release you from the prison of revenge and resentment and will allow God to bring you healing and wholeness. Inability to forgive leads to a small, shriveled heart, a prison of anger and distrust, and finally, leave you without God. Without God we have hell either here in this kingdom or the next for eternity. It’s your choice. Forgiveness can be learned. It takes time and practice and I believe if you are reading this, you can do it!

Blessings to you this week, Deacon Nancy Trimble

Join us for worship on Sunday at 10:45, come as you are and then stay for fellowship after service and meet a new friend!