What does it mean to forgive?

Sometimes I wonder if there are others like me. You find that a word is used so often that it’s kind of like a slang. Then you ask yourself what does this word really mean?

What is forgiveness and what’s it really about? Biblically o.

So I did a little research and got these…

Forgiveness is about letting go of resentment, bitterness, and the desire for revenge, even when someone has wronged you. 🤔. Okay.

It is actually a central part of Christian life as seen even in the Lord’s Prayer…”forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those that trespass against us”.

Now forgiveness does not mean ignoring wrongdoing or pretending it didn’t happen, but it is simply us (the forgiving party) releasing the offender and trusting God for justice. 🤩. Good to know that I’m not called to pretend it never happened.

Biblical forgiveness does not always mean reconciliation, but it does free the person forgiving from the burden of anger and bitterness. It is an act of obedience and faith in God’s justice.

So I sat down and started recalling everyone that had hurt me for as far back as I could remember; and for each name that popped up I said “I forgive you. I don’t feel any form of bitterness, anger or resentment towards you. I leave you in the hands of God.”

And I actually felt good and lighter.

I thank God for taking this burden off me.

I encourage you to try it also.

Cheers

Osila4Real