"It's the hardest thing to give away. It's the last thing on your mind to say." It's forgiveness. This month God laid on my heart to forgive. Not to just extend grace, but to forgive. Unforgiveness only leaves a person to be a prisoner of their own bitterness. It's a spiritual poison, really. To not forgive someone is like us saying, "Jesus did this awesome thing for me where He forgave me all my sins, and I want to be more like Jesus, just not towards you."
For a while, I didn't want to forgive. The pain I felt was just too real. Then, I didn't think I even could forgive. How do you forgive when no apology is even given?..The same way Christ asked His father to forgive those who persecuted Him, "For they know not what they are doing." (Luke 23:34) I am learning every day that forgiveness is a daily thing and an active choice. And it's not easy. So, this month I decided in my heart that just as I chose to love, I will choose to forgive. Forgiveness doesn't speak hatred, forgiveness doesn't harbor anger, forgiveness doesn't allow room for bitterness to grow...Forgiveness is what I have been commanded to do by God, despite circumstances, despite pain. Forgiveness is the biggest step to healing. My heart is being set free...
