After a long weekend, where many of us have spent time with family or friends, it’s possible that everyone didn’t get along perfectly. Forgiving is something we all have to face in our lives.
If we aren’t cautious, we can CHOOSE to overlook something or someone we have not forgiven in our own heart. We rationalize it in our minds, which can lead to not forgiving completely.
Many times in my life, I’ve used the excuse that I need to “protect my heart” because I don’t want to get hurt again. By shielding and protecting my own heart, I have allowed little seeds of unforgiveness to be planted. That places a large chip on my shoulder that God never intended for me to have.
Holding onto a grudge is like using a kitchen bowl to drain the oil in your car, rinsing that bowl with water afterwards and then putting ice cream into it. When you don’t forgive completely, there is always a little residue left behind, and until you do, nothing tastes the same.
“Smart people know how to hold their tongue; their grandeur is to forgive and forget.” – Proverbs 19:11 (MSG)
7 comments
This is such an important reminder as we approach the holidays. We tend to carry childhood bruises that have festered into family gatherings, mingled with expectations. That recipe can ruin occasions eclipsing the opportunity for new memories.
Let us practice this attitude and be open to the special events that await us!
Forgetting is one part of forgiveness…Forgiveness starts the forgetting. It is not always easy, however, God forgives me over and over and over and FORGETS!
this is just what I needed at just the right time…Thank you Pastor Nicole and thanks to God for putting this on your heart to share
In proverbs 19:11 it says ignore the insults or offense. If its your husband that is continually offending you or insulting you. How do you forgive?
The best thing to do is to forgive right away, & ask God. The quicker you forgive, the easier it’ll be. 🙂 Remember no matter anyone says to you–even if they’re close to you–God loves you, & that’s all the matters.
thanks Nicole I needed to here that !!!!!!!! so true forget and forgive it feels better
Just inspirational loi.