Forgive and be free.

Unforgiveness keeps us chained to the past, but forgiveness places the burden into God's hands.

Forgiveness doesn't always mean trusting someone again immediately or pretending the hurt never happened. It means choosing to release the offense and allowing God to be the righteous Judge.

"Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you."

(Ephesians 4:32 NLT)

I'm not there yet.

Everywhere we look, we see the effects of unforgiveness in families, friendships, churches, and communities.

I can't control whether someone asks for forgiveness. I can't control whether someone changes. I can't control what others say or do. But I can control my response.

I can choose to forgive because Christ first forgave me.

If I want to see less unforgiveness in my family, my church, and my community, it has to begin with me.

It starts with one heart that is willing to forgive.

What part do we play in that?

Forgiveness does not change the past, but it changes the person who chooses to forgive.

It releases the burden of bitterness, honors God through obedience, and makes room for His healing.

Forgiveness is not saying, "What you did was acceptable."

It is saying "I will trust God with justice and refuse to let this offense control my heart."

Heavenly Father,

Thank Your for Your amazing forgiveness. Help us to forgive others as You have forgiven us. Remove all bitterness from our hearts, fill us with Your Love and peace, and help us reflect Your grace in everything we do.

In Jesus' Name I Pray,

Amen 

— Dennis