FORGIVENESS

Today, I saw a headline asking if a certain southern chef deserves forgiveness.  And it brought to mind something a preacher’s wife told me about forgiveness.

Forgiveness releases you from a world of hurt—not the other guy.  The other guy probably could care less whether you forgive him or not.  Forgiveness lightens your heart and gives you permission to move on.  You are NOT required to have any painful heart-to-heart discussions or apologies with said other guy.  Forgiveness is a personal release.

I’m sure that all of us did something in the past or said something that we aren't particularly proud of—probably we are actually ashamed of it.  And true, actions have consequences and one should learn to filter what you say. 

But, when you choose to forgive another person, you choose a life of renewed energy that you can use for positive and good purposes.  You don’t need to dwell in the past.  Pity parties are no fun, and frankly, get over it!

We've all heard “forgive and forget.”  But they are not necessarily on the same mutual plane.  You can choose to forgive someone but that doesn't mean that you also have to forget the pain.  Sometimes, forgetting just is not possible.   Remembering your past hurts are part of what helps to build your character—you learn from them.  But likewise, forgiveness contributes to your character as well—positively or negatively depending upon whether you chose to deny forgiveness or not.

As a Christian, I've been taught that Jesus died on the cross to forgive our sins.  I believe this to be true.  Plain and simple, black and white—he died because I am a sinner.  So are you, but if you believe in Him—you sins are forgiven too.  You no longer have to live a life that is tainted beyond recourse.  There is a way out, just ask Jesus to live in your heart.