Forgiveness

We are called to forgive. God forgives us every single time we hurt Him. Every. Single. Time. Why is it so hard to forgive someone when they've wronged you? For me, I think it is that much harder to forgive when the person does not feel any remorse, or at least has not expressed it. But my parents have always taught me that forgiveness doesn't mean that you accept what's been done. It just means that you're letting go of the hurt and allowing yourself to not become bitter to what has occurred.

When it's a serious offense, it takes much longer. Well, it takes longer for me. It doesn't erase the hurt. Maybe it just makes it easier to deal with, once you finally forgive. I know God tells us "seven times seventy" is the number of times we should forgive. It's just so hard. This is something I'm currently struggling with.

There are people in my life, and people who are no longer in my life (by my own choice, or theirs), that I need to forgive. They have not asked for forgiveness, and to be honest I don't think they ever will. But they need my forgiveness. More importantly, I need to give it to them. But it's not for them. It's for me. I do not want to harbor bitterness in my heart. I want to be an effective Christian. Without forgiving those who've wronged me, no matter how trivial or severe, I don't believe that I can truly be just that, an effective Christian. How can I lead others to Christ when I have this huge pain in my heart. I haven't given it to Him, and I need to.

I'm praying that I will be able to do this. I want to. I just don't know how right now. So, if you're reading this, please pray for me. Pray that I find a forgiving spirit. Pray that God will show me the most effective way to forgive someone. I need to do this. I want to. I just don't know if I'm ready. Pray for my willingness to do this. Thank you so much!