This is a tough one–forgiveness of others–especially when you’ve been the victim of physical abuse, alcoholism, abandonment, narcissism(*). This is a topic I never post about here because it is such a sensitive, misunderstood one (…be gentle with me…)
In my healing from abuse, I knew forgiveness had to come in order for me to be free of my past pain. I’m not saying I’ve mastered this concept entirely (a concept that only Jesus can obtain), but I’m at peace for the moment, and where there is peace, there is God.
As Good Friday approaches we reflect on what Christ’s sacrifice means for each of us. Jesus, nailed to the cross, His blood poured out for ‘my’ sin –all for me. Why? Because God loves me that much. So who am I not to forgive, if my own sins have been forgiven through Christ?
As I truly grasp the magnitude of the ‘death-lock’ grip the enemy has on a lost person’s soul, I realize they “know not what they are doing”. Their eyes, blocked by sin (the enemy), can’t see light, love, or truth. God sent His Son, to die for all our sins…not just MY sins…and it is in that same loving merciful grace, that I am also able to forgive.
My friend, lay your unforgiveness at the foot of the cross. All the resentment, anger, bitterness. Don’t allow these ‘blocks’ to hold you back any longer. It’s time to live free from ‘others’ pain, burdens, and sin that you’ve been carrying. Forgive them Father, for they know not what they do…
(*note: I am no longer a victim, but a survivor…a victor in Christ! Amen!)
~my apologies for the length, hoping this helps someone struggling~