Fathers and Mothers: Devotions from Time of GraceSample

Being a Child of Parents: Forgive Your Parents

I love saying “Father, forgive me” because he always answers that prayer right away. There is no bottom, no end, no limit to Jesus’ forgiveness.

But then comes the hard part--“as we forgive those who sin against us.” God says he wants me to be equally as generous in forgiving other people. “As God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you” (Colossians 3:12,13).

If you’ve read this far, you’ve heard me encourage you to appreciate all that your parents have done for you. But let’s get real--they have hurt you too. They are sinners and have sinned against you. Millions of Americans have grown up in homes with parents who are alcoholics, who have sexually abused or permitted the sexual abuse of their own children, or whose adultery and betrayal broke up the household. What hurts do you still carry with you? Where do you go with that anger?

The past cannot be changed. What can be changed is how you choose to remember it. As the Lord has helped you by forgiving your sins, he can help you also to let go of your anger so it will not punish, torment, poison, or imprison you any longer. Let it go.