Forgiving Ourselves and Others

By, Crystal S. Kauffman, Contributing Writer

©Jin Jersam

Have you struggled with forgiving someone who has hurt you or abused you? Do you find yourself thinking about it a lot lately? If so, this is normal to feel whenever someone you trust has intentionally hurt you. However, you must find a way to give your hurt and pain to the Lord, for he will release you of the burden of guilt. Then, he will help you learn how to forgive those who have victimized you or someone you love.

The first memory verse is: Acts 3:19, "Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord."(KJV)
 
As you recite this verse, remember that you must confess all of your sins against God and others. Once you ask him to forgive you for all of your sins, he is just and will erase all of your sins immediately. For we must spend time, learning exactly what forgiveness truly is, because it can hinder your spiritual growth. Honestly, forgiveness is ceasing to be angry over unacceptable behaviors that have affected you.
 
By forgiving someone, you are not giving them your permission to repeat the behaviors that hurt you. Instead, you should recognize the feelings that you feel, since these emotions are only going to cause you pain. Be honest and ask for the forgiveness of others, once you have evaluated your role in the entire situation. This way, you can free yourself, from the burden of bitterness and anger that can lead to depression.
 
The second memory verse is 1 John 1:9, "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."(KJV)
 
Recite this verse, as you begin your transitional journey from being a victim to becoming a survivor. No matter what has happened in the past, you can fully overcome its negative effect on your life. However, you must forgive others also, for the pain and anguish or their behaviors or actions to stop. But, by allowing the offender to receive mercy, you are becoming worthy of God's complete forgiveness.
 
No longer will you receive condemnation, instead you will find peace that passes all understanding. In that moment, you will feel the burden of your guilt start melt away as the anguish disappears. Suddenly, all of your past iniquities will be washed away and fully forgotten by your heavenly father. Therefore, you will become a new creature in Christ, who is totally blameless and spotless before God.
 
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