Writing · Faith
Metanoia, Day 6: Forgiveness
By Richard K. Marshall · Originally published
Part 6 of a ten-day journey. The full series is also available as one combined guide.
Forgive as Christ forgave you.
Forgiveness isn't letting someone off the hook. It's setting your own heart free.
Colossians 3:13: "Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you."
Why forgive
Holding a grudge is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to suffer.
Forgiving doesn't mean what they did was OK. It means you won't let it control you anymore.
How to forgive
- Acknowledge the hurt. You can't forgive what you haven't admitted. It's OK to feel the pain.
- Choose to forgive. It's a decision, not a feeling. You may have to make it more than once.
- Pray for them. Jesus tells us to pray for our enemies (Matthew 5:44). It changes your heart.
- Let go. Release the desire for revenge. It may take time.
What it does
- Heals your heart from the weight of resentment.
- Reflects Christ and His grace and mercy.
- Restores peace and reconciliation in relationships.
Today's challenge
Think of someone you need to forgive, big or small.
- Pray for them, and ask God to help you see them through His eyes.
- Decide to forgive, even if only in your heart first.
- If it's appropriate, take a step toward reconciliation. If not, release the grudge inside.
He forgave us while we were still sinners (Romans 5:8). Let that be the model.
It isn't easy. It's necessary for real change.
Next: Day 7, Reflection and Journaling.
— Richard K. Marshall Lexington, Kentucky
Originally published on X: https://x.com/RichMarshall/status/1881343512912044421 · . Refreshed .