"Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed."

Monday, October 12, 2009

The Process of Forgiving

Thanks to you who have commented on the recent anger posts. The author went from anger into forgiveness and I thought this worthy to share. From the October In Touch magazine devotions:

Confession to God is the beginning of the process [of forgiveness]. Come before Him, admitting any resentment and acknowledging it as sin. As you lay your anger and hurt before the Lord, let Him begin to heal your broken heart.

Sometimes the process can also involve going to the offender and confessing your sinful attitude toward him. This is not the time to itemize his wrongs but simply to admit your own. Although the offense against you may seem greater than your unforgiving attitude, avoid the temptation to "rank" sins. And leave judgment to God.

Forgiveness brings freedom from the agitation that accompanies resentment. In working through the process, you'll begin to see the one who hurt you through eyes of compassion. Eventually, you will be able to thank God for the opportunity to learn forgiveness and live in His lavish grace.


Does this sound too good to be true? I wonder if anyone out there has had this happen in her own life or knows of someone where this happened.

2 comments:

Amber said...

I haven't had it happen yet, but I just wanted to say:

This whole 'don't rank sins' thing. I do have a hard time forgiving someone without thinking... 'you did this, this, that, and that other thing, but I'm forgiving you because I'm supposed to.' and sort of congratulating myself on what a 'big' person I am. :) And yes, I *am* aware that that's a problem. *singsongs* Working on it....

Susanne said...

Ha, ha. I love how honest and "real" you are, Amber. :-)

Thanks for sharing where you are presently.