“For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: but if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” Matthew 6:14-15 KJV
The mind-blowing part about full forgiveness is, you may be called to join Christ in ministering to those who wronged you as you heal. This is often the best way to illustrate the unconditional love of God, the healing and restorative power of Christ’s gospel, and the transformation possible with the Holy Spirit. Cooperate with Christ to contribute to their full healing if He calls you. Pray for their blessing daily. Encourage their development. Celebrate their progress. Make room for reconciliation. Resist the urge to gossip or complain to others or to yourself. Think, speak, and prepare for the day your prayers get answered.
As they open up to a new relationship, things will be different. You have healed and grown. You react to them or life generously. You treat yourself better than you used to, and you no longer accept less from anyone else. They may expect or want things to be like it was, but it’s not possible. You will have to start over. This process may create a lot of grief, because it can feel like the loss of a needed relationship or the death of a loved one. Hopefully they can grow with you, but if they aren’t ready that’s okay to. You may have to be more prayerful, patient, and creative to find a way to start over and begin anew. Deep wounds take a lot of time to heal. Give this time. Love heals. Forgiveness heals. Trust it.
God, your forgiveness is healing me right now. Thank you for not giving up on me, and giving me time and help to do better. Help me do the same for others.
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