All the Feels - Leading Our EmotionsNäide

DAY 19: RESENTMENT / BITTERNESS

Ok, here's the truth. Whether we like it or not, resentment and bitterness will never lead us to what is best and healthy in our life or relationships. They are dangerous to linger in and damaging to stay in. If you find yourself wrestling with how or why to forgive someone, this is for you. Remember, forgiveness is not a feeling, it's a choice.

Why do we forgive? We forgive out of love and obedience to the Lord.

Not because they did or didn’t apologize. Not because we aren’t upset anymore. The Bible is clear, as we have been loved by Jesus sacrificially, we are to love sacrificially. As we have been forgiven freely, we are to forgive freely. This is one of the most difficult and freeing commandments from God.

He knows what bitterness does to His children, it destroys them. Let God be the judge and your defender. Don’t let resentment add to the hurt you're already experiencing. Let Him heal your heart as you trust Him with your obedience.

Even when you don’t feel like it, say “I forgive you” out loud. Remind yourself that Jesus is the one who is worthy of it even if we feel others may not be.