(Photo by Alex Shute)
Written by: Elsie R
Forgiveness takes a lot of strength. Some people find it hard to forgive because they are aware of who hurt them and how. One of the hardest people I had to forgive was my father. Despite my father's absence growing up, as an adult, I still made sure he was okay. I even went out of my way to make an effort when no one else did. My father said a few words to me, and those words made me lose my trust in him. I think because my father saw how available I was to him, he took advantage of that and thought he could treat me a certain way ( Later, my availability to him made me question my availability to others).
Even though my father hurt me and my family, I knew God was telling me to forgive him.
Colossians 3:13- "Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others."
When reading this, I thought of myself and others. How many of us have offended God? How many of us question whether or not someone is deserving of our forgiveness? Yet, despite the sins you commit, God has chosen to forgive you. Forgiveness isn't about seeking revenge; it's about finding peace.
Jesus promises us peace.
Philippians 4:7- "Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus."
God chose to love and forgive, so I encourage you to do the same. It won't be easy, but it is possible.
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