Forgiveness – The Key to Freedom and Healing
Theme
Forgiveness is not about excusing harm but about finding freedom and peace through Christ’s example.
Story
Forgiveness is often misunderstood as letting someone "off the hook," but true forgiveness is about freeing yourself from the chains of bitterness and resentment. As someone who has endured severe abuse, I know how hard it is to forgive those who have caused deep wounds—especially when they were people you loved or trusted.
Several years ago, I asked God to show me if I had truly forgiven my abusers. Be careful what you pray for! Within months, I encountered two of my abusers in unexpected situations—one at church and another at a family wedding.
The first encounter was surreal. I hugged the man who had abused me as a child without feeling anger or hatred toward him. The second encounter was even more challenging—I sat in the same room as my rapist and felt only peace in my heart. This peace didn’t come from me; it was evidence of Christ’s transformative power working within me.
Forgiveness didn’t mean forgetting or excusing their actions—it meant releasing them into God’s hands while reporting their crimes to the authorities. It meant choosing freedom over bondage and achieving a Reborn Identity.
Bible Verse
"So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed." - John 8:36
This verse reminds us that true freedom comes from Christ, who breaks the chains of our past and sets us free to live fully in Him.
Call to Action
1. Pray for Strength: Ask God for the courage to forgive those who have wronged you.
2. Release Your Burden: Write down the names of those who hurt you and surrender them to God in prayer.
3. Take Practical Steps: If necessary, report crimes or seek justice while leaving ultimate judgment to God.
Things To Remember
- Forgiveness is not about excusing harm; it’s about freeing yourself from bitterness and resentment.
- True forgiveness comes from Christ’s transformative power within us.
- Forgiveness doesn’t erase accountability; it releases your burden into God’s hands.
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