Friday, March 13, 2015

3/13/15 by Michelle Bouse

“Forgive” appears 42 times in the Old Testament, 33 times in the New Testament. The word “Forgiven” appears 17 times in the Old Testament and 28 times in the New Testament. And the word “Forgiving” appears 6 times in the Old Testament and 1 time in the New. (from http://garyeugenehowell.com)

We are here to love and forgive. The Lord asks us multiple times to do so.

Ephesians 4:32  "Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you."
We have all said "I'm sorry," and we've all said "I forgive you," but did we mean it.  How many times did you pray for that situation or person after you forgave them?

True forgiveness is from the heart, it is when we not only pardon someone or something, but allow our heart to let it go – giving it to God. The healing continues when we pray and ask for blessings over the person or situation. Forgiveness always points back to Jesus' ultimate message, to love one another. If God has forgiven us, shouldn’t we then forgive others?

Forgiving is a process.  It is much easier (just like most things in life) when we ask God for help. So many of us are holding on to things that no longer serve us.  We say we forgive, but we won't forget. We learn our lesson, but won’t let it go. Anger, hurt & resentment are harmful.  It can make you sick and dims your light (and this world needs your light), the light of God’s love in your heart. God is the only one who can change our emotions, soften & heal our heart.  Asking God to help us forgive, is the only way we can surrender, let go and move on.

Luke 17:4 "Even if that person wrongs you seven times a day and each time turns again and ask forgiveness, you must forgive."

On Ash Wednesday I asked the Lord to help me learn to forgive as he does. I asked for the strength and purity of heart to pray for those that have deeply hurt me.  I pray to forgive them, bless them and thank God with all my heart for holding my hand & healing my emotions.

I believe God gives us many opportunities to heal and learn the peace that comes from forgiveness. By forgiving others, in turn we are the ones who receive the greatest blessing of all.. Peace.

Is there someone or something in your life that needs forgiveness?  For Lent why not finally give up your deepest pain, let go of the anger, the past hurt & sorrow.. pray to forgive & be forgiven. Let God pour love back into your heart & fill in those cracks.  It’s not easy, but it’s worth it!

We are made to love, not to hate. By not forgiving we are just blocking love.

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