The Roadmap to Forgiveness

Hi Hooga Friends,

Amidst the joy of celebrating love this month, let's not forget the power of forgiveness. Contrary to what you might think about forgiveness, it can be a profound act of self-love and empowerment. Forgiving others in your heart is letting go of the bitterness of their offenses. Let's explore the beauty of forgiveness together:

1. The Meaning of Forgiveness

Before we can forgive others, we need to understand what forgiveness means. Choosing to forgive doesn't minimize the pain. It's okay to feel hurt, angry or betrayed, but holding onto these difficult emotions can make us feel stuck and not live the life of abundance that Christ has for us. Forgiveness is not excusing one's behavior or placing our trust fully in the relationship as if nothing happened. It is releasing the offender from the debt that they owe us and letting go of the bitterness we feel towards them. 

2. Prayer for Strength

We can turn to God in our pain and ask for help in letting go of our resentfulness. Pray for the strength to forgive daily and ask God to give us a heart of compassion and understanding toward ourselves, as well as those who may have hurt us. As Jesus taught, "Bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you" (Luke 6:28).

3. Reflect on Ourselves

When we experience heartache, it can be easier to act upon this pain by hurting others back with our words or actions. Instead of lashing out, it can be helpful to pause and reflect on our own shortcomings, which helps us develop empathy and understanding toward others.

In Psalm 139:23-24, David said to the Lord, "Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting."

David went to God for counsel because he cared about living a life of holiness and humility. He asked God to reveal any unknown or unperceived sins in his heart. Jesus also reminds us to remove the plank from our eyes before trying to remove the speck from someone else's eye. Awareness of our own sins can fuel compassion and forgiveness for those that have sinned against us.

4. Seek God's Wisdom in Reconciliation

Forgiveness and reconciliation are two different things. Forgiveness is about releasing resentment, while reconciliation is about restoring the relationship. Jesus teaches us practical ways to reconcile with others by going to the person privately to resolve matters in hopes that the relationship can be restored. However, reconciliation requires the efforts of both parties. If one continues to be closed off, Jesus says to bring one or two more people to help the situation. If the person still doesn't want to reconcile, we can still choose to forgive them and move forward in our own lives.

5. Embrace Healing

Forgiveness is a powerful tool that can heal our hearts and minds. When we choose to forgive others, we release the burden of resentment and open ourselves up to the healing power of love and compassion.

In Luke 23:34, as Jesus was being crucified, he prayed, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing."

Following Jesus' example, we can forgive others, even if they do not ask for forgiveness or show remorse for their actions. 

Forgiveness is a crucial step in our spiritual journey. By understanding the meaning of forgiveness, praying for strength to forgive daily, and seeking reconciliation, we can let go of the bitterness and move towards true peace and freedom.

We absolutely adore going through your comments, so make sure to drop your thoughts and prayer requests below. If you're looking for more ways to deepen your relationship with Jesus, make sure to check out The Abundant Life Devotional Journal!