How To Forgive

If you think you just can’t forgive them, this video is a “must watch”! HOW TO FORGIVE paves a clear path, one which is easy to understand and — believe it or not — easy to follow. So be your own best friend and get on with your life. Forgiveness is for YOU!

SUMMARY

Matthew 6:14-15 — For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly father will also forgive you, but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your father forgive your trespasses.

— Everyone has the need and the occasion to forgive others from time to time.

— There are TWO REASONS why we should forgive:

1. God commands it. (See scripture above.)

2. Un-forgiveness is like poison to your soul. It doesn’t hurt the other person, it hurts you.

— Here are SEVEN THINGS TO REMEMBER about forgiveness:

1. Forgiveness is not a feeling. You don’t have to feel good about it. You may still feel angry or hurt by what they did to you. But that does not stop you from forgiving. You can forgive, no matter how you feel.

2. Forgiveness is a decision. It is a decision made in spite of your feelings. The other person does not have to apologize or change their behavior. Forgiveness is a one-man show. It’s not about them, it’s about YOU. Forgiveness is between YOU AND GOD.

3. Forgiveness does not mean that you are saying they were right. Or that you accept their behavior. It just means that you are ready to move on with your life, and you are not going to carry the burden of un-forgiveness into your future.

4. Forgiveness means you will not make them pay for what they did. No personal vendettas, no getting even, no paying them back. Let them off the hook and let it go.

5. Forgiveness doesn’t mean that you lose. You can learn from your mistakes and be better for it. Learn what you can from the situation, and let it go.

6. Forgiveness does not always mean reconciliation. Forgiveness only involves ONE person (you) — but reconciliation requires TWO (you and the offender). The other person must apologize and change their behavior if there is to be reconciliation. Sometimes reconciliation is not wise.

7. Forgiveness does not mean that you forget about what happened. “Forgive and forget” is not in the Bible.

— God loves you very much! Rest in Him, and let Him deal with the person that hurt you.

— Remember that you are first on His mind today!

BONUS POINT: If you ever figure out why people do some of the things they do, call Debbie and tell her. She’d love to know!