“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.” (Mark 22:25) 

Do I forgive well? I asked myself this question a long time ago and pretty quickly thought, “Yes! Forgiveness is so easy for me!” Then, years ago, as I sat through a two-day prayer seminar I was challenged to take some time reflecting and asking the Holy Spirit to reveal anything I needed to forgive. I was encouraged to write down things that hurt my heart, and choose to forgive each one of them.

My initial thought was, “Piece of cake! I’ve already forgiven.” Then I started writing my list… I would never have anticipated the cycle of forgiveness I would go through over the following eight months. God began to reveal words that were said or things that offended me all the way back to elementary school. Through this process, I also remembered things I needed to ask forgiveness for. I began this activity with pride and I was met with so much humility. It led me to a deep realization of how Jesus forgives me and His amazing gift of continual forgiveness. 

Mark 22:25 became so much more precious, because I realized I need this type of forgiveness. I had no idea the gift that would accompany this practice of remembering, forgiving, and asking for forgiveness.

Forgiveness extinguishes anxious thoughts, resentment fuels anxiety. The gift of peace burrowed in my soul. Over the years of pain and rejection—some minor, some bigger—I had erected a wall. It was deep and hidden. I wouldn’t have appeared closed off on the outside, but I had silently struggled with forgiveness for a long time. I didn’t even know this about myself, and yet the Holy Spirit shined a big light on my soul as he started pouring his healing anointing on broken places.

Forgiving is so healing.

Self Reflection:

• Who do I need to forgive?
• Do I forgive well? 
• Is there something holding me back from forgiving fully?
• Does my lack of forgiveness affect my walk with God? How?

Prayer:

God, please soften my heart toward ________. I want to choose to forgive because You forgave. Thank You for Your mercy and forgiveness. May Your great love and grace capture my heart. In Jesus' name.


Contact Becca