Real Hope: ForgivenessNäide

Freedom and Peace

It’s easy to agree on what forgiveness is: "a conscious, deliberate decision to release feelings of resentment or vengeance toward a person or group who has harmed you, regardless of whether they actually deserve your forgiveness" (UC Berkeley).

Equally important is what forgiveness is not. It is not glossing over or denying the seriousness of a situation. Forgiveness does not mean condoning or excusing offenses, and although forgiveness is a key part of repairing a damaged relationship . . . it does not obligate you to stay in relationship with the person who harmed you.

One thing is for certain–forgiveness is divine. We are called to forgive because we have been forgiven. "In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace which He made to abound toward us in all wisdom and prudence" (Ephesians 1:7–8, NKJV). And if you’re looking for freedom and peace in life, forgiveness is a powerful ingredient. Unforgiveness is like drinking poison. Your resentment, and the hurt and pain you hang onto, is only causing you harm.

Instead, forgiveness brings peace of mind and frees you from corrosive anger. Set yourself free and release forgiveness. Trust in the God who loves you. He is the ultimate judge and ultimate justice. Forgiveness is not about trusting in the person or situation that hurt you. It’s about putting your trust and faith in God MORE than in your need for justice or vengeance in this moment. Who do you need to release forgiveness to today? Do you need to forgive yourself?

Written by NATALIE BENNETT