You can and should have mercy on yourself. Life is too good to spend it dwelling on something that happened five, ten or twenty years ago. This doesn’t mean that you should forget about your past or pretend that it didn’t happen, but if something still nags you, I’m asking you to simply forgive yourself, just as Christ forgave you.

When we receive freedom from the Lord through the completed work of Jesus, a process of renewal begins on the inside of us. As we internalize the wholeness of His forgiveness, and the fact that He has blotted out every sin we will ever commit, whether past, present or future, we can begin to let go of our need to punish ourselves by staying in guilt and shame. Once we have surrendered our desire to hold on to our transgressions, we can humble ourselves to others, ask for their forgiveness and take responsibility for our mistakes. As this happens, restoration occurs and we build up an inner strength and resilience that enables us to better endure the rudeness, harshness and competitiveness of this world.

Friend, forgiving yourself for what Jesus has already forgiven is the start of walking in the abundant life He purchased for you on the cross. It’s done and it’s a free gift, so grab hold of it today and watch your life change!