“Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper, but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy.”
– Proverbs 28:13
 Here are a few important things to remember about the nature of forgiveness. First of all, forgiveness is not excusing or overlooking. It’s not making light of something that was very hurtful or pretending that it didn’t happen. In order to forgive, we must be willing to own the full extent of our wound so we can fully let it go. Second, forgiving is not forgetting. While God has the ability to remember our sins no longer, that isn’t entirely the case for us as humans. Trying to forget means denying our pain, which is healthy. Forgiveness means that we are willing to let go, even though the wounding was real.
Finally, forgiveness may not include reconciliation. While we must forgive in order to reconcile, reconciliation isn’t always possible, especially when the offender continues in their destructive ways. The Lord teaches us to guard our hearts, which may require that we create space between ourselves and those who consistently and unrepentantly cause damage to our physical, emotional or spiritual well-being. My friend, you are always called to forgive, but you are not always called to restore unhealthy relationships. Like Jesus did, you are empowered to set boundaries with those who seek to manipulate you so you can maintain freedom and continue fruitfully in the Kingdom work He’s called you to. As His disciple, the posture of your heart should be ever-willing to let go of offense, but as one who is wise, you understand that doing so doesn’t happen instantly nor does it demand that you deny destructive behavior. You are shrewd as a serpent but gentle as a dove, so you can show compassion, kindness, and mercy to the least-deserving while diligently guarding your soul. Forgive lavishly but reconcile responsibly and the broken world will change as a result. |
Prayer
Jesus, thank you for enabling me to forgive while also setting healthy boundaries.
Reflection
How can you reconcile responsibly with those who harm you?
If you’re unable to attend your local church or need some additional weekly inspiration, be sure to tune into Hour of Power online at hourofpower.org/episode.
3 Responses
Thank you Pastor Bobby for this timely Word! I’m currently healing from a gut renching situation that deeply hurt my heart. Forgiving this individual is difficult however I realize it must be done so I can receive true healing. GOD BLESS you and your family and thank you for being here in my time of great need. Please join me in prayer for victory and vindication in every area of my life. In JESUS Christ name we pray. Amen. Thank you again. ❣️
I look forward to your devotional every day! Thank you for investing in my life. Today I want to give back to you. There was a sentence Today that just doesn’t make sense to me and I believe it is a typo, if not I need you to explain it more fully.
“Trying to forget means denying our pain, which is healthy.”
Shouldn’t it say “isn’t healthy”?
I am confused.
Beautiful, and for such a time as this in my life. God bountifully bless you.