Don’t be Trapped by Bitterness
Daily Prompt: Forgive and Forget?
http://dailypost.wordpress.com/2013/12/21/prompt-forgive/
Personally, I don’t find it a challenge to forgive, and I choose to remember.
After being in the ministry for many years, I’ve had a handful of people – primarily acquaintances, who asked me to forgive them because of inappropriate things that were said in front of me, or to me. Forgive and forget? Of course! I appreciated the respect that was given, even though it was an afterthought.
Then…. there are those times that involve friends and family – those experiences that pierce your heart. Those are the times that I remind myself to look at the example Jesus set for me. I sometimes have to force myself to look beyond the person and what was said or done, and keep my focus on the prize for doing what is right.
If you’ve ever experienced bitterness, then you know the control it has over your emotions – and your life. I allowed myself to be trapped by it, and after years of living without peace or true happiness in my heart – I finally let it go. I’m not even sure that I can find the words to describe the difference it has made in my life. I seriously felt a huge weight lifted off of my shoulders, and an amazing feeling of happiness – finally – in my heart.
Forget? I don’t think so. I choose not to dwell on past experiences, but I look back to be reminded of how I was able to forgive – only because of him, and the amazing power of the Holy Spirit. So thankful.
“For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.” Matthew 6:14-15
“I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.” Phil 4:13
Live-Write 
Pingback: When forgiving is the only option | A mom's blog
Pingback: Actions speak louder. Cliche but so true! | The Hempstead Man