Been thinking about forgiveness lately. I often hear the phrase, “Forgiveness is not for the other person, it’s for you.” In all honesty, I don’t agree entirely with this statement. I do agree with letting go of hurt that is currently holding you back. I do agree with the fact that holding back forgiveness will continue to fester bitterness inside you and make you inclined to take that bitterness out on others who don’t deserve it. You may be justified in your hate, but you’ll never be free from the offense.
Bigger question still, what about the other person? There are offenders out there that are truly evil without a willingness tho change. But some reading this know that someone whose been hurt will at times go on to hurt others, because the hurt is all they know. And the vicious cycle goes on. Truly heartbreaking how that perpetuates. I’m grateful for the One who has the key to break this awful cycle.
Last question, what is God’s view on forgiveness? Is the reason why he died on the cross and poured out forgiveness for himself alone? I highly doubt that. He offered His grace because of Love, because of the initial good he created us for, being made in His image and to restore us from being separate from Him because of sin. We are definitely worth dying for.
I believe this, because I’m created in God’s image and because of the power He gave to me, I can forgive even major offenses that have been dealt me. I sincerely believe that is possible. Also, I see how broken this world is and how the Evil One only seeks to hurt and pile lies on top of the hurt. All this hurt is definitely not what God wants for anyone. May we have compassion on all those hurting.
For those going through the struggle of forgiving, I’m right there with you and am praying for you. I ask for prayers as I work toward forgiving the way Christ would forgive and not just for my own exoneration.
Butterfly Goddess Perspective 