Measure Of Grace

Forgiveness doesn’t always feel possible when you’ve been deeply hurt. There are sleepless nights and sometimes endless tears. It seems as if the pain will overtake you, and nothing will ever be the same. That’s precisely where the enemy wants to keep you. (Ephesians 4:26-28)

The devil wants you to doubt the promises of God and your comeback. He wants to rob you of your joy and peace. He will taunt you and try to make you feel even worse in hopes of making you spiral out of control and lash out in unhealthy ways. He continues to bring into focus the person’s actions and encourages you to replay the scenario over and over like a broken record. (John 20:27)

But don’t let the enemy draw you in. Instead, exercise the authority Christ has given you. Refuse anything the enemy brings to the table of your mind. Don’t allow him to serve you anything because it’s toxic and will only make you sick. (Luke 10:19)

Remember, we’ve all hurt and disappointed someone, even our Heavenly Father. Therefore we should extend a measure of grace to those that offend us. Same as our Heavenly Father has done for us. (Romans 3:23-24)

We have to choose to forgive for our own peace of mind. It’s not that we’re condoning the other person’s actions, but rather freeing ourselves from the stress and strain of carrying hurt and disappointment around day after day. 

We are forgiven by Christ. And when we’re rooted in His love, we can forgive. What we think is impossible is possible with His strength. In our weakness, we are made strong in Christ. (2 Corinthians 12:9)

If you’re struggling and holding on to unforgiveness in your heart for a loved one, friend, fellow church member, co-worker, or acquaintance, talk to the Lord about the situation. Allow the Lord to heal your heart and help you to let go of anything causing you pain. Let Him lead you in the direction that you should go. Perhaps forge a renewed friendship or even walk away, but being free of all hurt, guilt, and pain. (Colossians 3:12-14)

Prayer: Lord, thank You for forgiving me even when I didn’t deserve Your forgiveness. Help me to do the same for anyone that I haven’t forgiven. Show me how to let go and move forward in You. In Jesus’ name, amen.