Today I want to have a heart-to-heart about forgiveness, that powerful yet often challenging act that can transform our lives in profound ways. So, let’s cozy up and dive into this important topic together.

Have you ever found yourself holding onto hurt and resentment? I sure have. It’s like carrying around a heavy backpack full of rocks, it weighs you down and makes every step feel harder than it should be and you don’t even realize that you’re carrying it around, if you’re like how I used to be, it was just a part of life. But here’s the thing: forgiveness is the key to unloading that burden and finding freedom.

Ephesians 4:32 says to “be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.”  It’s a gentle nudge to extend the same grace to others that we’ve received from above.

But let’s keep it real, forgiveness isn’t always easy. It’s a journey, not a destination. It takes time, effort, and sometimes a whole lot of tears. But trust me when I say it’s worth it. When we choose to forgive, we open the door to healing and restoration, both for ourselves and for those we forgive. Besides, you’re only hurting yourself holding on to that resentment, it eats away at you and ONLY YOU.

Now, let’s talk about reconciliation. It’s like the cherry on top of the forgiveness sundae, it’s sweet, but not always necessary. Reconciliation is about rebuilding trust and restoring relationships, but it’s okay if that doesn’t happen right away, or ever. Sometimes, forgiveness is enough.

Take Joseph from the Bible, for example. His brothers did him dirty, but instead of seeking revenge, he chose to forgive them and move forward with his life. Genesis 50:20 sums it up quite well: “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.”

So, here’s the essence of it, forgiveness is a divine gift that we can extend to those who have wronged us, not because it originates from us, but because it flows from God. It’s a chance to let go of the past and embrace a future filled with hope and healing. So let’s take that first step together, hand in hand, and see where this journey leads us.

Until next time, keep spreading love, practicing forgiveness, and shining your light for all to see!