Focus: Boxing With My Shadows Day 1 | August 5

Facing our shadows—the hidden hurts, betrayals, and unforgiven wounds—is a battle not everyone chooses. The Bible shows us that unresolved pain leads to spiritual and emotional destruction (“Destruction and misery are in their ways,” Romans 3:16). When betrayal stings, many retreat into bitterness or denial rather than forgiveness. Yet, 1 John 3 calls us to love even those who have wronged us, warning that hatred or unforgiveness distances us from God’s life and peace. True healing starts when we bring our shadows into the light, confess our hurts, and allow God’s mercy to restore us. Forgiveness isn’t excusing wrong; it’s allowing God to transform pain into freedom.

Bible Verses:

• “Destruction and misery are in their ways.” (Romans 3:16)

• “Anyone who does not love remains in death… no murderer has eternal life residing in him.” (1 John 3:14–15)

• “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9)

Call to Action:

Name a “shadow”—a betrayal or hurt—you’ve avoided. Bring it to God in prayer, asking for courage and heart to forgive, trusting Him to heal what you surrender.

3 Things to Remember:

• Shadows left unchecked breed misery and ruin.

• Forgiveness is the key to freedom and healing.

• God’s mercy transforms even the darkest pain.