In life we’ve all been hurt by someone whether it be physically, verbally, emotionally, or all of the above, but the only way to find true peace through it all is through forgiveness.
My childhood was full of traumatic experiences inflicted upon me by my mother. The memories of abuse lingered well into adulthood. I carried so much hatred in my heart for her to the point that I would yearn for the chance to have a front row seat to see her suffer just as I had to suffer. Deep down I knew this wasn’t pleasing to God, so I asked God to help me to forgive her. It didn’t happen overnight because it’s a process, but as time went on, a scab began to form over my childhood scars and little by little, the burden of unforgiveness was lessened. Today she’s the same person she was when I was a child. She never apologized for what she did to me, as a matter of fact, she denies the abuse ever happened. I had to accept the apology that I never got and move on with my life.
I saw a picture of my mother recently and my heart dropped. It was as if I could see every evil deed etched into her face and also the weight of it all. I could tell she was reaping what she sowed. Instead of rejoicing, I felt pity for her. I began to pray for her that she repents and gives her heart to the Lord. At that moment, I knew the Lord did a work in my heart.
Forgiveness is a powerful thing. It breaks the strongholds of bitterness and anger and releases peace and freedom. Also, forgiveness doesn’t necessarily mean reconciliation. If you can forgive and move on together then beautiful, but if the person is toxic and will continue to hurt you, God bless them and release them to the Lord. You cannot continue to play with snakes and be surprised when they bite you.
We don’t have time to be held hostage by unforgiveness. It’s time to forgive and walk in our healing, and receive every good thing God has for our lives. We got this!
Release. Heal. Rise.
Prayer: Lord, help us to forgive those that despitefully misuse us. We know that when we forgive, your light shines through us and exhibits your love. Less of me and more of You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
