Forgiveness One Act at a Time
We live in a busy and hectic society and there are times when things just get in the way. It doesn’t matter what it is it’s the fact that it is that takes the day away. If not careful; unforgiveness will be one such thing that takes the day away and if not unforgiveness then bitterness, resentment or any other joy killer. This is why in the big scheme of things forgiveness is one day at a time. It is no different than walking with the Lord; you can only do it one day at a time.
When it comes to forgiving it’s not easy; and it’s not a one time item to cross off the list forever although it would be nice. It would be nice to never have to experience life in a way that would bring a reason to need to forgive; but yet that doesn’t exist and one wouldn’t be living if this were the case. And in reality if it were that easy what really would we need Jesus for? It is Jesus that came to set us free, to deliver and to love us right where we are. If not for Him on that cross there would be no forgiveness.
And so as forgiveness goes one day at a time be encouraged that it’s something you can do and something you can do today. Be encouraged that you too can make the choice to forgive just as Jesus did. Even unto His death He asked the Father to ‘forgive them for they know not what they do’ and it’s so true with any of us today. How often do we truly know what we are doing?
As you go about your day schedule time to forgive. Schedule that alone time with the Lord with no distractions, diversions or disruptions. Go to your quiet place with Him and ask Him to reveal any internal heart clutter that needs to be removed. Ask Him to heal you of any pain from others or even yourself. Ask Him to bring you to a new place in Him. Go to Him and ask. You have everything to gain simply by going to Him. Don’t wait until Sunday as all the other 6 days in between the enemy will be hard at work. So run; don’t delay. Do it now and do it one day at a time. And then do it daily; make forgiveness your lifestyle one day at a time.
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Today’s Scripture
2 Corinthians 12:9 But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.”
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Forgiveness Tip #11
Forgiveness brings to light the still voice of the Lord.
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Julie Blair is President of Julie Blair Ministries and host of ‘Living in Forgiveness’ television and radio programs that airs daily to over 3 Billion people on 5 continents. To learn more about forgiveness and the love of Christ or to speak to your church or business visit www.julieblair.com
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There are many reasons why people run from forgiving and then the are reasons people have for justification of it. It took me forgiving though to actually see it. Oh the irony! Recognize that there are reasons why people justify not forgiving and perhaps you have taken on one or a couple of these.
1. They don’t deserve it.
Whether you believe someone does or does not deserve forgiveness is not your decision or judgment call. Praise God! If it were your decision how many people would be forgiven? If it were up to others to decide your fate of forgiveness; where would you be? Imagine for a moment if God never forgave you; where would you be? In this exact situation you may be in a place that you do not want to be because you are choosing to harbor unforgiveness. Forgiveness is a command and it is not about anyone else. It is about your choice to be obedient to God’s Word for the purpose of glorifying Him.
What you believe someone else deserves is not your decision as God probably did not create you to judge the people in the universe as He is God and can handle it just fine. Sometimes we just need to grasp that reality that God can handle things and all we need to do is just be obedient and let God be God. When that reality sinks in and our obedience level increases; our relationships change and the fruit becomes more evident in our lives and the lives of others. Perhaps those people who do not deserve forgiveness may just be seeking forgiveness because they realize what they have done and as a result too of your obedience more people’s lives will change. If you never forgive and choose instead to play God you will never know. But rest assured; these words are clear in Mark 11:25, “And whenever you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against anyone, so that your Father also who is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.” (NIV) It is better to forgive regardless of what your mind will tell you so that you stay on the side of God and not that of the enemy who wants to kill you.
2. The person’s dead
A person’s life status does not change your obedience to God. God’s Word and commands are for every day and not just the days when other people are alive. It would not make sense that you would be absolved of being obedient to His Word just because someone else is not alive. That is a trap and lie from the enemy because it will cause you to justify your sin of unforgiveness and only keep you harboring it and living with the continued consequences therein.
What a person did that caused pain does not change because the person is no longer living. The person still did what the person did and for you to be free from the pain of it will require forgiveness. Remember that your obedience to the Lord is and must always remain the focus. Additionally; the person’s death itself may be something that needs to be forgiven. I remember years ago speaking with a woman who was grieving the loss of her husband who had been murdered. She was grieving as though it were yesterday and in the conversation she revealed it was 12 years prior. She was still in pain and agony and I asked her if she forgave him for dying. She had never heard of such a thing. Most people haven’t. She had forgiven the murder and that was it; but never did she know she needed to forgive her husband for dying and what she was left with to manage in her life as a result. His death cheated her and she lived like it; even though it wasn’t his fault she still was cheated in her mind.
I saw her three weeks later and she was healed and even met a wonderful man! Within 6 months she was married. She shared that she never knew how her not forgiving him for dying had such an impact on her life. As she sought the Lord she repented of harboring the unforgiveness and other symptoms and she was set free. Although her husband was no longer living; the forgiveness was for her being obedient and released from the bondage of unforgiveness.
It is a lesson that regardless of someone’s life status or even mental or physical state; we must be diligent to be obedient and remain steadfastly focused on God and His Word.
3. I can’t forgive
There is a difference in not forgiving because you do not know how and because you can’t. Not knowing does not mean you can’t it simply means you do not know how. Believing that you cannot forgive brings on other issues. Some may include:
- I’m not worth it
The guilt of sin causes many to fall into a downward spiral. The shame, embarrassment, condemnation, self-loathing; and even remorse or regret keep people in bondage. All of those are strongholds and lies from the enemy. So long as you live in a state of unworthiness and undeserving you will never experience the grace and mercy that God extends to His children. God has given you all that you need in order to forgive. His Word is clear to forgive. Why would God give a command to forgive and then want His children to believe they are not worthy of doing it and receiving what comes through it? What kind of father would that be?
I can share with you from personal experience that I did not know how to forgive myself. I found it much easier to forgive others because I could readily accept they didn’t know what they were doing. Me on the other hand; oh no. I should have known better and because I did not I was not worthy of forgiveness. What occurred though was that as I started to forgive myself I started increasing in power and it kept building. Additionally; the Lord showed me that if I see others as deserving of forgiveness and I am no different than them then how can I judge myself to a different standard? Once I understood and received that my life change. It will for you too!
- Pride of letting go
Forgiving means that you are ready to change and holding on to the pride of who you are and what you own will need to be torn down. Remember that all you are owning and harboring are things that are killing you. There are no assets in unforgiveness. Your pride may suffer a little because the life you built based upon your unforgiveness will change; however, when you walk with the Lord the changes are always better for you and best for His Kingdom. When you make the choice to get over yourself and let God deal with you in accordance with His Word everyone wins. Those around you will experience change and therefore your choice to be obedient and become the more real you is a blessing for all.
4. Fear God won’t justify me
Any fear is not of God. Some may want you to believe that there are some healthy fears; although I cannot seem to find this in the Bible. It would not make any sense for people to have fear and then attempt to trust God for justice at the same time. The oxymoronic ideologies only keep people trapped and that is certainly not of God. What I can find in the book of Psalms are wonderful words in Psalm 28:7 that read, “The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him.” (NIV)
When it comes to dealing with issues of forgiveness God is on your side. When you go to the Lord out of reverence and with a heart seeking Him to be obedient to His word it is pleasing to Him. When you make the choice to lay down the burden and the pain with it; know He is on your side. He will never leave you nor forsake you and as you seek Him that fear will be released from you. You will be vulnerable without a doubt although if there is anyone to be vulnerable in front of it is Jesus. I remember when I was in the process of forgiving I truly did not know the amount of unforgiveness I had nor did I know the immense pain that was evident. I was the one who suffered much torture and turmoil and was a child victim and I felt angry that I had to be the one to forgive; however, as I did the Lord revealed to me that His ways are just and because He is a just God all I had to do was be obedient and all would work out in the end.
The end was a changed heart, mind and life. The same will be for you too so long as you choose obedience. God is a just God and will protect those who seek Him for all things. Do not allow forgiveness to be what slips by.
5. It’s not fair I have to forgive
Being the person to forgive is not always easy nor may it seem fair; although ask yourself this: “Was it fair that Jesus died on the cross when He was innocent?” There are times in life when we may be judged fairly and we may be victims. While it may be painful; God’s Word does not change. The Bible simply states, “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:23) (NIV) Whether or not any of us feel justified in forgiving someone does not change the command to forgive. When we get the reality that God’s Word is clear and that our focus must remain on Him then life changes.
What occurs when we have the right focus is that what others are doing will be seen as the distraction that it is. The enemy wants people to focus on the wrongs of others which simply then puts people in the point of living in vanity and not forgiveness. So long as the focus is on being the victim and with childish thoughts as to why it is not fair then the level of immaturity is revealed as well as the other symptoms.
It is best to step up like a mature Christian, focused on the forgiveness and knowing that the enemy is simply trying to bait you into a battle that you need not even fight because through forgiveness; you already have the victory.
6. Nothing will change
The idea that nothing will change when you forgive is almost laughable. Why would someone think that obedience changes nothing? It changes everything! The enemy is like a lion prowling and so long as you believe nothing will change by being obedient then the enemy sets you up for an easy but long death. Remember that the enemy never doubted God he just gets people to. So long as what people believe is a distortion of God and His Word then the enemy wins.
Believing that forgiveness does not matter will only keep you from living the full life that you were meant to live. Believing that lie is like believing that eating healthy will have no health impact. The words of Apostle Paul make it clear: ‘For what I am doing, I do not understand; for I am not practicing what I would like to do, but I am doing the very thing I hate. (NASB) People know what they should do but when they do not; there are consequences. Believing that nothing will change does not mean do not do what must be done. This thinking is a distortion of the mind and will only cause more strife and separation in your life.
By getting your mind straight and taking every thought captive unto the Lord you will not only live in obedience, but also forgiveness and the abundance that God has already ordained for you.
As any person can come up with numerous reasons to not forgive; none of them are substantial enough to be upheld against God’s Word. The Word is for yesterday, today and for all the days to come. There are no discrepancies and no excuses. Yes forgiveness is a process and each person progresses through the process at varying paces; which is normal and acceptable.
When it is time to forgive; whether it is others, yourself or even God know that He has given you everything you need in order to be successful. There is nothing you cannot do without Him and He will be with you. It simply is a matter of you laying yourself down to overcome yourself and choose life; and ultimately Him for the bigger purpose for your life. While it may be a challenge take the challenge and live in forgiveness. It is worth it because what is beyond it is more than you can imagine!
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Today’s Scripture
Philippians 4:13 “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
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Forgiveness Tip #10
Forgiveness isn’t about the other person; it’s about you, your obedience to Christ, your future and your freedom.
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Julie Blair is President of Julie Blair Ministries and host of ‘Living in Forgiveness’ television and radio programs that airs daily to over 3 Billion people on 5 continents. To learn more about forgiveness and the love of Christ or to speak to your church or business visit www.julieblair.com
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When it comes to forgiveness there are reasons why people do not forgive. It is important to recognize that not forgiving is disastrous to your life because it creates internal hindrances that will prevent your life from progressing toward all that God has in store for you. Recognizing the excuses people have for not forgiving will help you see not only what they are; but that if you hold to any of them that you can overcome them and forgive and live in the freedom that comes with it.
- I don’t have unforgiveness issues.
Those that believe they do not have any unforgiveness in most situations do not truly know the depths of forgiveness nor do they know all of the symptoms of unforgiveness Jeremiah 17:9-10 tells us, ‘”The heart is more deceitful than all else And is desperately sick; Who can understand it? “I, the LORD, search the heart, I test the mind, Even to give to each man according to his ways, According to the results of his deeds.” It is wise to not rely on your own wisdom to whether or not you believe you don’t have any issues of forgiveness. A much more prudent route would be to seek the Lord and let Him show you what areas of forgiveness are evident. See; because we are all born into sin we have a biased opinion of ourselves and simply dismissing that there may be an issue of unforgiveness or its symptoms is dangerous the level of self-deception can and will destroy us. With almost 40 symptoms of unforgiveness simply dismissing that there are no issues with it without a full understanding is a slippery slope you do not want to venture on.
- I already did.
If you are like me I thought I forgave. I said the words. I had no problems saying that I said those words. And of course years ago. What must be understood is just because you say the words ‘I forgive’ does not mean anything if they are just words. This is a trap. It is a trap that I fell into for decades. I truly believed that because I said the words that it meant I was free; however, it was obvious to those who knew some of the symptoms that I had no understanding or grasp of forgiveness. Reflect for a moment before dismissing the idea that perhaps you have not forgiven. Look in the mirror and truly take an inventory before the Lord. Ask Him if you already did forgive and to the full or if you simply said the words to continue forward yet really are not going forward because you never forgave. Do not be deceived in this area as it can steal your life. If you have any anger, resentment, bitterness or feel separation from God there is a good chance that unforgiveness may too be lingering. It’s best to seek the Lord to ensure your victory and not allow yourself to live the less than what He has future as a result.
- You don’t know what they did.
The trap with the belief that what others have done is a reason to behave in a certain way is one that causes many people to fall. What other people did do, are doing, will do; or anything else has no impact or reflection on the decisions that any of us are required to make in accordance with God’s Word. Allowing the sins of others to be the controlling factor in whether or not you choose to forgive is a set up for failure. It is giving others control over your life and on purpose. It is not an escape route but rather a death sentence.
When the focus is on what other people have done it reveals that the focus 1) is not on the Lord, 2) is not on that of seeking the Lord to be living a lifestyle of obedience through forgiveness. Not only this; if you spend your time focusing on what they did with a judgmental or critical attitude then won’t you need forgiveness for that? As a result any person at any time can make the choice to focus on what someone else’s faults and sins are but why? Why not just focus on the Lord and seek Him as your refuge and judge and let Him handle it accordingly? In the end it will release you from any and all bondage and will keep you in the righteous standing with Him.
- I don’t know how
Not knowing how to forgive may sound like a reasonable reason to not forgive; but not really. The reason is that there are numerous tools available and in reality; you do not need to look any further than God’s Word which provides answers to all of mankind’s problems. If you truly want to forgive then do it. Provers 13:4 makes it clear:
“The soul of the sluggard craves and gets nothing, while the soul of the diligent is richly supplied.” Craving peace, joy and the rest of the fruit of the spirit is one thing; obtaining it is quite another. It is not possible to achieve something you are not willing to go after. Forgiveness is and must be the lifestyle of a Believer and not knowing how to forgive may be a temporary status; although living in that status simply means you have chosen death over life which is contrary to God’s command to choose life. Learn how to forgive and then live.
- It won’t matter.
The lie that it does not matter if you forgive or not is a lie from the enemy to keep you living in bondage. Remember that anything that brings you closer to God is something that the enemy does not want. Forgiveness is obedience to God. Period. The enemy will thwart your endeavors and so long as you believe the lie you are defeated. He will temp to you to believe that forgiveness does not matter for whatever reason he wants you to believe. It does matter that you forgive. It is your life that is at stake and believing any lie that it is not relevant is as like believing that accidents never happen when people text and drive!
Whether or not you share with the person that you forgive face to face or by letter may not be as important; although forgiveness is vital. It is evident in the New Testament that it is extremely important because Jesus talked and taught about it and the Father gets angry when we choose to not forgive. Now this would make sense since it was His Son who died on the Cross for forgiveness of yours and mine sins. It matters!
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Today’s Scripture
1 Corinthians 12:8-9 “Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. 9 But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.”
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Forgiveness Tip #9
Forgiveness is the pathway to life restored.
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Julie Blair is President of Julie Blair Ministries and host of ‘Living in Forgiveness’ television and radio programs that airs daily to over 3 Billion people on 5 continents. To learn more about forgiveness and the love of Christ or to speak to your church or business visit www.julieblair.com
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Forgiveness is a process of healing that takes as long as it takes. Because each person is different, each situation is unique; and each relationship is unlike any other the process of and toward healing is exactly that. It is a process that will only occur should you choose to maneuver through it.
In grasping forgiveness and how it is a process of healing it in its truest and deepest form will require people to align themselves with God’s Word. There is no other way. It is evident that people are not aligning their lives and minds with the Word of God based upon the fact that so many are suffering. The statistics reveal: 44 million Americans suffer from mental disorders. 6.9% or 16 million American suffer from depression. 18.1% or 42 million Americans suffer from anxiety. Depression is known as the leading cause of disability worldwide and is known as the largest contributor to disease worldwide. 90% of those who die by suicide suffer from mental illness. (https://www.nami.org/getattachment/Learn-More/Mental-Health-By-the-Numbers/General-MH-Facts-4-02-15.pdf) It is a command for people to not let the words of God be out of sight for they are health to a man’s whole body. Getting away from God’s word has repercussions and the mental health statistics reveal so. It is when people’s lives align with the Word of God that the change will be evident. Romans 12:2 tells all readers, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” (NIV) The ways of the world are away from God’s Word and ways and the results of that cause suffering.
The great news about forgiveness being a healing process is that it is! Psalm 147:3 is clear that “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” (NIV) It is through seeking forgiveness that healing takes place. A person who never forgives will never be changed to live in the abundance of what God has in store. On the flipside; obedience to God’s Word and seeing forgiveness will bring one through a process of healing. On a personal note; the process of forgiveness was one that not only changed my voice but my eye color too. Whatever is on the inside manifested spiritually will reflect outwardly in the physical. Healing that takes place spiritually too will be revealed to all. The process of healing is one that will forever change a person’s life; which would make sense as the Apostle Paul writes that the battle is one in the spiritual and not in the physical. One of the best ways to be healed in Christ is to repent and seek forgiveness so that times of refreshing may come as in reads in Acts. The times of refreshing just may be the healing that people desperately need! With this said; it will require one to realize that the ways of God are bigger than the ways of man. Proverbs 3:7-8 commands people “Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD and shun evil. This will bring health to your body and nourishment to your bones.” (NIV) Again; there is healing to one who is obedient to God’s Word. Forgiveness is an act of healing and obedience that will only strengthen a relationship with Christ.
There are numerous examples of healing in God’s Word although the one that stand out for recognition are found in Jeremiah where it is written, “Heal me, O Lord, and I shall be healed; save me, and I shall be saved, for You are my praise.” Jeremiah 17:14 (NIV) There would be no cry for healing if there wasn’t an awareness that it could be done. When it comes to forgiveness and unforgiveness; the fruit one has is based upon the level of obedience. While seeking forgiveness may prove to be challenging; the power that comes with the obedience therein is something that cannot truly be explained. It is an experience that brings with it much release of turmoil while increasing in identity in Christ and understanding of what Jesus truly did when He was obedient to die on the cross for the sins of others. No other religion or person on earth can lay claim to this. True healing can only be found in and through Christ. Anything other is a counterfeit. Unfortunately; too many have fallen into the trap of that are not being healed as they should be because they are seeking other sources for healing that are not God ordained. Through forgiveness in Christ; healing comes. This would not be written otherwise.
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Today’s Scripture
Deuteronomy 30:19 “This day I call the heavens and the earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live…”
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Forgiveness Tip #8
Forgiveness is a process of healing that begins in the mind.
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Julie Blair is President of Julie Blair Ministries and host of ‘Living in Forgiveness’ television and radio programs that airs daily to over 3 Billion people on 5 continents. To learn more about forgiveness and the love of Christ or to speak to your church or business visit www.julieblair.com
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Society is changing and we must forgive there is no doubt about that. The question is if your pastor or if you are a pastor and carry a firearm does it mean you aren’t a forgiver; that you need something stronger than forgiveness? Some argue that if you live in forgiveness that that is all you need while others argue otherwise. So is your pistol packing pastor unforgiving just because he/she chooses to carry a firearm?
It’s so funny to hear people say there should be no politics in church yet one has to wonder the historical context of where that came from; especially when the Declaration of Independence itself is a religious document. Ever wonder why history is being changed so quickly and what is actually history is no more? Guns have no place in civilized society many believe which that too is a joke because it’s not about them not having them; it’s about you not having them.
When you look in history you will the puritans carried firearms to church for safety. They were Bible believing people who upheld Christian morals and values. Guns were as normal as carry the Bible. Both were needed and still are. They both too can save your life. Now safety from what or whom isn’t the question as the focus on the fact that they carried.
Generations ago pastors laid their firearms next to them on the pulpit while they preached. Now imagine that today! I personally would love venture to that on my next segment of “Living in Forgiveness” and see the response I get. And then there are those that believe that self-defense is only prayer and that even having a firearm is open season for attack; which of course perhaps is open season only by the media and its agenda. You are merely an unforgiver if you so decide to arm yourself with a firearm. How dare you be both a Christian and a firearm carrier and love your neighbor too? You extremist you! And so if you attend church do you know if your pistol packing pastor is unforgiving? Is your pastor unforgiving if he carries the latest Kimber 911? Or he is just upholding what once was the norm in history? Or is he/she more forgiving if a firearm is not present? Who decides?
The Bible is clear that we are to walk in love; it is a command. We are called to love God as it tells us in Mark 12:30-31: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’31 The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.” And so if you carry a firearm are you considered unforgiving or unloving or not trusting the Lord? Or are you just prepared- which too by the way is a command to be prepared in and out of season. And in today’s society every day appears to be in season when you look carefully!
As we can clearly see the church is under attack. Christianity is under attack. Christians are attacked daily. Speaking anything in the name of Jesus is under attack and walking in love of others is even under attack as Target just proved by suing a man who saved a girl from her attacker at one of their stores. Oh yes stepping in to help others is being attacked. Go figure! (http://www.wnd.com/2016/05/target-sues-hero-who-saved-girl-from-store-stabber/) . Yet still love is the best way to be on the offense. Carrying a pistol simply prepared for defense.
And so is it possible when walking in love and living in forgiveness to carry a firearm at the same time? Find out. Don’t just judge. You may find that the next time you are in church and it’s the pastor with the pistol teaching about love and forgiveness that perhaps you will see everything from a different angle.
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Today’s Scripture
Luke 11:21 “When a strong man, fully armed, guards his own house, his possessions are safe.”
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Forgiveness Tip #7
Forgiveness changes your perspective.
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Julie Blair is President of Julie Blair Ministries and host of ‘Living in Forgiveness’ television and radio programs that airs daily to over 3 Billion people on 5 continents. To learn more about forgiveness and the love of Christ visitwww.julieblair.com
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When it comes to forgiveness there is no doubt it’s hard. It’s one thing to sure agree that it is hard by what? Why is forgiveness so hard? It’s hard to overcome child abuse, bullying, infidelity or backstabbing. It’s not an easy thing to let it go although it is possible. So let’s examine why forgiving is hard:
1- It’s not easy to let go.
Probably the most honest reason about why forgiving is hard is because it means we have to let it go. Sure people may tell you ‘oh sister, just let go and let God’ which is fine although it doesn’t change how hard it is; nor does it change the fact that I want to just slap them. Just saying.
And do it goes that it’s hard and until you are ready to let it go nothing will change; except you. Whatever you allow to rule you will. So you have a choice. You can be ruled by unforgiveness which simply means that you are choosing to not let it go or you can be ruled by forgiveness which means you are moving forward in freedom.
2- It’s hard to trust God’s on your side.
When I was faced with forgiving it was hard. It was the absolute hardest thing I have ever had to do in my entire life. The pain of abandonment, rejection, homelessness, loss of baby, infidelity was so much and the mere fact that I had to go before God who let it all happen and expect that He was on my side- yeah that was hard. It was hard to tell Him exactly how I felt and how unjust it was. I had to trust that God was on my side and that His word is true where He turns darkness to light. It wasn’t until I started telling God that I forgave those in my past that I felt His presence. The more I forgave the more I understood too that my problem wasn’t all about what they did; but the unforgiveness that I carried. And that- was life changing.
3- It’s hard to admit pain.
Who wants to admit they are hurting? Seriously; who wants to admit that? Most people don’t which is why they suffer in silence feeling invisible yet just sharing there is pain can be freedom. It’s really that simple yet for me because I never knew how to actually share anything but anger and lashing out the expression of anything else was a new experience. And besides how many tough girls admit they are in pain? I couldn’t possibly allow myself to admit that I was hurt because I would be weak and that just wasn’t what my persona was about. This was until I was faced with sharing it all with Jesus and everything changed. It will for you too and it’s ok to share how you feel because that is one of the first steps to not only being real; but moving toward forgiveness and actually know what the real situation is.
4- It’s hard to not want justice.
I didn’t want to forgive because I simply didn’t want anyone who hurt me to get off the hook. So I just didn’t. I did years later though mutter some words although those with discernment will see through you so don’t try that route. When being faced with forgiving I knew I needed to because God’s Word says so but in reality there were times when I resented it because I didn’t feel justified in being the one to forgive when I was the victim. I wanted them to pay and to pay dearly and somehow I equated my level of forgiveness with their level of freedom instead of my level of forgiveness is equal to my level of freedom. I see it now. My unforgiveness only hurt me; not them. The same for you. So just forgive.
5- It’s hard to let go of pride.
Unforgiveness in many ways is about pride. It is a built up wall of defense that keeps people out and you tucked in. It is a steel wall that can’t be penetrated through and in reality it’s a big false fake coverup. Those that don’t forgive are really just hiding behind the pain of the past, of people, their own selves or even God. Pride will keep people in such bondage of trying to be tough and trying to be nice; although the fruit of the Spirit cannot be exhibited through and unforgiver. And so the pride covers the truth and the truth is that what others have done hurt you and it’s ok. It’s much better to say the truth than hide behind it because it only creates a bigger, stronger wall that leads to a longer life of misery. So let go of the pride, be real, be vulnerable and just be free.
Forgiveness is not easy; not at all. What it is is freeing, life changing and weight loss. It’s the quickest way to be restored to Jesus and open the doors to blessings. It’s the display of what is in your heart and your level of obedience. And it’s hard. The good news though; is that you are equipped to face hard. And you are equipped to live your life of forgiveness.
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Today’s Scripture
Psalm 56:4 “In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I shall not be afraid. What can flesh do to me?”
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Forgiveness Tip #6
You level of forgiveness is equal to your level of freedom
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Julie Blair is President of Julie Blair Ministries and host of ‘Living in Forgiveness’ television and radio programs that airs daily to over 3 Billion people on 5 continents. To learn more about forgiveness and the love of Christ visit www.julieblair.com
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I’m sure you’ve heard the saying ‘oh forgive and forgive’ or ‘I can forgive you but I can’t forget what you did’ and on it goes but is it really wise to forgive and forget? Seriously do you forgive and forget? Or hold on? And not only that is it possible to forgive and forget?
In understanding the process of forgiveness to the full; it brings with it many components. First and foremost for Believers is that it is between that person and the Lord. Sure you can seek another person for forgiveness of sins; except that really isn’t the best route or direction. Not only this; in the Bible it reads to confess your ‘faults’ which is different than ‘sin’. A fault may be being tardy although it’s not a sin. So in essence dealing with unforgiveness is an issue between a person and the Lord.
Now then; when it comes to forgiving is the emotional component that is tied to the unforgiveness. We already know we are to forgive; and even Peter knew that as his question to Jesus wasn’t ‘if’ he should forgive but how many times he should in Matthew 18:21. It’s the emotional component that keeps most people living in the misery of unforgiveness. Let me explain:
A person may claim that he/she has forgiven except their emotions reveal otherwise. The level of bitterness, resentment, angst, fits of rage, intolerance, lack of patience and all the other roughly 40 symptoms are evident. The person may believe that there has been forgiveness except that when there is the emotional condition of the person changes too. No longer is there the emotional attachment to what the situation was or who the person was. It is something that occurred in a time no different than walking the dog.
As a result; yes the Bible is very clear to take every thought captive no doubt. (2 Cor 10:5) except there is a difference in taking every thought captive and suppressing every thought. See; just because you don’t think about someone who hurt you doesn’t mean you don’t exhibit the symptoms of the pain of what the hurt caused. And this is where most get into trouble because they don’t recognize it. In my life I honestly thought I forgave although the symptoms were evident along with my chosen topics of conversation. Once I forgave it was my eye color and voice that changed; proof again that what is inside is always revealed outwardly whether good or bad.
So to answer the question is it wise to forgive and forget? It depends. If I needed to forgive you for eating the last of the gelato in the freezer they probably not. Why take up memory space right? On the other side; if we live in forgive and forget then what is the testimony? You wouldn’t know because well; you forgot.
When the emotional aspect of forgiveness is progressed through it not only changes the perception of events but also heals as a result. And it is Jesus who is the Healer; the one to bring freedom. Because the emotions are not raging over the very thought of whatever or whoever it was then the only thing remains is the fact that something occurred although it is not occurring now. The emotional component has no more power. This is why forgiveness is so much more than the utterance of a few words in passing just to move along about life.
If I forgave my biological mother and forgot there would be nothing further to ever be said. There would be no testimony; no further glory for God. There would be no evidence of fruit of what has taken place since that time. No. There would be nothing. And what a shame for Jesus to have died for no testimony of His goodness!
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Today’s Scripture
Galatians 5:1 For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.
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Forgiveness Tip #5
Forgiveness is freedom.
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If you are struggling with forgiving someone, yourself or even God let us help. He created you for so much more and the last thing you want is unforgiveness to block the life He has in store! Visit www.julieblair.com
Watch Living in Forgiveness nightly at 9:30pm CST on the UANetwork.
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In the story of the widow in 2 Kings we learn much about our thinking. Her story is one that sheds light to the power of perception and how God can bring overflow into our lives when we are ready to receive. As such the widow learned the lesson and rather quickly.
When the woman was asked by the prophet Elisha what she had her reply was probably as most today would reply, “Your servant has nothing there at all,” she said, “except a small jar of olive oil.” (2Kings 4:2)
In the big scheme of things she saw what she didn’t have; and the one tiny thing she did have. It was the tiny thing that became the largest.
When you look at your life do you spend more time looking at the largest thinking that only the largest things bring in the largest things? This story proves the exact opposite is true. Her story ends with so many jars of oil filled that in today’s economy she would probably be a billionaire.
Don’t limit yourself or limit God by what you think you don’t have. You have more than enough and you are already a conqueror. It’s just a matter of believing, receiving and living based upon it.
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Today’s Scripture
Romans 15:13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.
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Forgiveness Tip #4
Forgiveness is the oil that changes lives and brings the outpour. ______________________________________________________
For more about forgiveness and abundant living visit www.julieblair.com
Watch Living in Forgiveness nightly at 9:30pm CST on the UANetwork.
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Unforgiveness is sin; there is no way around it. And sin in it’s very nature is dangerous. Hence the damaging nature of unforgiveness as sin is what most don’t grasp. The reality whether we like it or not is that we all must get to a place of living in love and forgiveness. Otherwise; we will never overcome anything in life.
Sin destroys your relationship with Jesus, others and yourself. It should be no shock since we are told in John 10:10 ‘ The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.’ (NIV)
Unforgiveness is sin against God there is no doubt. The good news is that when you make the choice to forgive; your life will change and as we are told He came so that we may have life- and to the full. It’s up to us to choose whether or not we want it.
If you truly want to grow in the Lord and be transformed in Him it will require forgiveness. There is no way around this. The better part of this though is that He has already given you everything you need in order to forgive. He has supplied you with all the strength that you need to be obedient; and victorious too.
Before you allow your body, your spirit, your soul, your relationships with others; and your relationship with Jesus to be destroyed ask yourself if it’s worth it. Is it worth it to keep all the garbage? It is worth it to hoard what will only enslave and entrap you; especially when you don’t have to because He came to clear the path and set you free?
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Today’s Scripture
1 Peter 5:7 Cast your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.
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Forgiveness Tip #2
Forgiveness will remove the bondage of sin that keeps you from the Lord. ______________________________________________________
For more about forgiveness and abundant living visit www.julieblair.com
Watch Living in Forgiveness nightly at 9:30pm CST on the UANetwork.
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Forgiveness is limiting. It limits everything in your life; your mental state, your emotional state, your health, opportunities. It limits everything It’s time to unlimit God through forgiveness.
When you forgive you are releasing everything good in your life to enter; which makes sense because it’s God who withholds no good thing. It’s us that blocks him from releasing it through disobedience in unforgiveness. It is sin that is the deadbolt to bondage. And now it’s time for you to break through and remove all limitations that unforgiveness has had on you.
You see; we all are faced with the choice to forgive. People hurt us. Things in life happen and it’s what we do when those hurricanes of life storm through that will have all the impact on everything in your life. Even Peter knew that forgiveness was something that needed to occur otherwise we would not read in Matthew 18:21 ‘Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?” And wasn’t it Peter who walked on water?
If you want to go higher and deeper with the Lord; forgive. Clear the path. Move the mountain. Stop limiting God by being unforgiving.
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Today’s Scripture
Philippians 4:13 ‘I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.’
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Forgiveness Tip #1
You actually can forgive. You just need to align your mind to believe it. ______________________________________________________
Watch Living in Forgiveness nightly at 9:30pm CST on the UANetwork.
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