Scripture

Mark 11:25 "But when you are praying, first forgive anyone you are holding a grudge against, so that your Father in heaven will forgive you your sins too."

Message

Forgiveness is a powerful word! It is also one of the hardest things we will ever have to do. But it is a very important step in the healing process, whether it be from a wound, a word or an action from someone else, either deliberately or unintentional. Has someone hurt or abused you? Has someone broken your trust or confidence? Did someone inflict pain, either verbally or physically? Did your spouse cheat on you? If you answered yes to any of these, then you are a candidate for forgiving.

Forgiveness does not mean that you have to stay in an abusive relationship, or even be around the person that has hurt you! It just means to forgive them for whatever they did and then move on. If you do not forgive you are the one locked in bondage, not the one who sinned against you. It will eventually destroy you, not them, as it will cause the root of bitterness to develop and gives room for the devil.

It will not be easy, but it is absolutely necessary. They might not even be sorry for what they did, but you still need to forgive them. When you have done wrong, you also need to ask to be forgiven. Then with the Lord's help, try very hard never to do it again, to them or to anyone. They may not accept your apology, but you still need to do what is right.

The Lord forgives our downfalls and the many stumbles and detours that we take in our life. He has also forgiven every sin we have ever committed, and those we have yet to commit. How can we not do the same? And when you do forgive those imperfect souls for the pain they put you through and you stay together, do not constantly remind them of their mistake. You can never move ahead if you don't let it go. If they are truly sorry then you should rejoice, not remember. Put it to rest and begin again. It can and will be better than it ever was if you let it.

Prayer

Dear Lord, I am having such a hard time dealing with this pain. I don't know how to rid myself of it. I need you to guide me through, Father. Help me to forgive the one that has hurt me more than I ever thought I could be hurt. The trust I once had I need back, if not for them, then for me. Do not let it be a cancerous growth always getting in my way of happiness and love. I need you to help me forgive them, Father and it has to be sincere from the bottom of my wounded heart. It will not be easy to forget the pain, but if you stay with me and remind me of all that I have and can have, I will make it work. I can not do anything without your help, God. Please, help me now, in Jesus' name. Amen.