The Art of Forgiveness – Freeing yourself from the burden of resentment.
There is true power in forgiveness. But before we can extend it to others, we must start with ourselves.
Forgive yourself—for what you think you could have done differently. Forgive yourself for staying in a situation longer than you think you should have. Forgive yourself for beating yourself up. Because the truth is, God has already forgiven you. Now it’s time for you to forgive you too.
Only when we’ve experienced self-forgiveness can we truly begin to forgive others. God extends grace and mercy to us daily, and He calls us to extend that same grace to others. Remember, they are His children too, and He loves them just as much as He loves us.
Holding on to resentment quietly affects our hearts, our peace, and even our bodies. Forgiveness is freedom. It lifts weight off our shoulders, brings peaceful sleep, calms our minds, and relieves stress. And while it’s not always easy, the first and free source of strength is God.
God never asked us to carry our burdens alone. In fact, He commands the opposite:
Exodus 14:14 (NIV): “The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.”
Be still. Be silent. That can be hard—but it’s in the stillness where healing begins. When we quiet ourselves and draw near to Him, He comforts us. He places forgiveness in our hearts.
1 Peter 5:7 (NIV): “Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.”
Give it all to Him. The pain. The anger. The anxiety. And then, be still.
James 4:7 (NIV): “Submit yourselves, then, to God.”
Here’s your spiritual sequence for forgiveness:
Submit to God
Cast your burdens on Him
Be still—and let Him fight for you
This is the practice of forgiveness. And when you walk in it, you’ll find yourself able to forgive others as well as yourself.
You’ll feel lighter. You’ll sleep deeper. You’ll live freer.
Closing Prayer
Father God, thank You for Your mercy and never-ending grace. Help me to forgive myself for the mistakes I’ve made and the moments I’ve held onto too tightly. Teach me how to let go, submit to You, and trust that You will handle what I cannot. Fill my heart with Your peace and plant within me the power to forgive. Help me release resentment and find freedom in You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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