Forgiveness and Healing

Throughout life, we gain many experiences and knowledge. There are days where we feel on top of the world and there are days where we want to crawl in a hole. It can be hard to pull yourself out of the hole when you think you can do it by yourself. You may resort to temporary methods, but eventually, it will backfire and push you back into the dark and cold ground. This place is full of anger and hurt. There is a way to get out. Jesus’ way. Imagine yourself in the hole and you see a light at the top. A hand reaches toward you to help pull you out. That hand is from Jesus Christ. True healing and forgiveness are done through Him.

In the world, forgiveness is often discouraged. People promote taking revenge on those who have wronged us or to hold on to the betrayal and let it mold us. What people don’t know is that by doing so, you are only harming yourself and the people around you. When your heart truly forgives the world, God sends love and healing back to you. Acting upon your hatred and pain will only reciprocate the same energy back to you.

It is a common misunderstanding that forgiving someone means to reconcile with them and to excuse, overlook, or minimize their behavior. Reconciliation and forgiveness are not the same thing. Forgiveness means to choose to stop being bound to the evil that the pain brought. An easy way to understand the difference is to know that while reconciliation requires two people, forgiveness only needs one person. Letting go of your claim on the hurt will not erase your past, but it will write you a better future.

Forgiving others for your sake is a very important step in the healing process. If you cling onto that anger and grudge, you can’t possibly move forward in life. Healing is NOT a linear process. Don’t be discouraged if you feel like you just aren’t getting better, because you are. With time and the Lord, all will heal. Maybe today you feel amazing, and you’ve forgotten all about the situation, and tomorrow you feel as if you are back at square one. And that is okay. When you are in pain, seek clarity through the Holy Spirit. Do things that you know bring you closer to Him. If reading the Bible helps you feel His presence, then examine the scripture. If attending church allows you to open up to Him, then go and visit Him. God’s word can wash us and cleanse us.

The enemy is evil, and he will use people to divert your attention from fulfilling your God-given purpose. He will place people in your life that will only hold you back and lead you to sin. Therefore, you must pray to our Father for guidance, for discernment. Take every thought you have captive and examine it. Determine whether it is sent from God or not. Whether it is glorifying Him or not. Let go of everything that is heavy on your heart and leave it up to the Lord. Do not worry. Tell him what you need, and He will help you. He mends broken hearts, and He is there to hold you together in times where you can’t. All you need is faith, trust, and love.

If you're feeling discouraged: Deuteronomy 31:8

"The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged."

If you're feeling sad: Matthew 5:4

"Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted."

If you're feeling overwhelmed: Matthew 11:28-30

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

If you're feeling attacked: Exodus 14:14

"The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.”

In wrapping up, we hope this blog post about forgiveness and healing has connected with you and given you helpful insights for your journey. Forgiving isn't easy, but the rewards are huge – it sets your heart and soul free and brings deep healing. Remember the Bible verses we talked about, they're like a comforting hug when you're struggling. Forgiveness isn't just about letting others off the hook; it's also about giving yourself a chance to feel God's amazing grace. While you go through life's ups and downs, try to forgive like you've been forgiven by Him. It's like a soothing balm that heals old wounds. Let Jesus' love and compassion be your guide, and may your journey be full of hope, healing, and a strong connection with God.