Here is a little secret- knowing how to forgive past hurts and let them go is a critical tool to live out your divine destiny. Forgiving and letting go is one of the main keys in growing strong relationships and being emotionally and physically healthy.
Yes, there are some wrong-doings (sins) that are so harmful that the relationships can not survive, forgiveness can still survive and cause you to thrive in life. Forgiveness helps you move forward. When we are unforgiving it takes a physical and emotional toll on us. Here are some nuggets to help you forgive.
You have to be unlocked and receptive to forgiveness. It is a choice and one you must do by faith and with the help of Holy Spirit. This means you make a decision to walk in forgiveness. The thoughts that you have must be filtered through God’s Word so that you can live in Truth. Self-Control has to be put into play so that you can refrain from wrong thoughts, emotions, and actions. Accepting that your why doesn’t have to be answered for the reason of the hurtful and harmful behaviors. This does not mean you are approving or accepting the behavior but you are accepting forgiveness.
Close relationships need forgiveness to flourish. Everyone makes mistakes, and we all need to forgive and be forgiven. It is true that no healthy relationship can endure for a long period of time without forgiveness. (marriages, family relationships, friendships, partnerships… all need forgiveness) Colossians 3:12-13 says, “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.“
I know personally that when I see God’s love for me, and my brokenness apart from Him, I can truly love and forgive others. Many times we are good at taking the gift of forgiveness but not as good as giving it. Forgiveness moves us into a place of enduring love. Love that is planted in God and not just our emotions. Love and Forgiveness go together. Father God’s love can never be exhausted. Forgiveness is a part of love that strengthens, builds, and restores.
Allison Bramlett 