The Freedom to Let It Go Sep 06 2011

"Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you." - Colossians 3:13

Question: Is there someone you’ve been unwilling to forgive? Who is it that comes to mind? Now, I assure you in some situations, you’re not going to be able to forgive people in your own strength. The hurt is too deep. We need to ask God to help us do what we cannot do. Ask for His supernatural power to begin to forgive that person.

You see, unwillingness to forgive is unwillingness to give control to God. Leave "getting even" up to Him. In fact, the Bible tells us, "'Vengeance is mine. I will repay,' saith the Lord." (Romans 12:19) How do you know when forgiveness is complete? For me, it’s when I’m able to see that person without having a knot in the pit of my stomach. There’s no sense of bitterness or resentment – just acceptance. Does that mean you merely trust them? Oh no - it's even greater than that. You choose to love them. It’s a great miracle that God brings about when we ask His help in forgiving others.

If you’re really struggling in this area, remember, Jesus is our ultimate example. Nobody was more innocent than Jesus. He had no sin. We murdered Him with our sins on the cross. And while we were murdering Him, He said, “Father, forgive them.” If Jesus can forgive us for that, then through His power, we can forgive others who have wronged us, no matter how awful the deed. Ask God to help you do this today. You won't believe the freedom you will find once you let go.