I just finished reading “Pierced & Embraced” by Kelli Worrall. This book is full of so much wisdom and I would like to share with you something I learned from this book. One of the chapters really got me thinking. The chapter titled “Forgiven & Set Free: The Woman Caught in Adultery” And Jesus said, “Neither do I condemn you; go, and from now on sin no more.” John 8:11. This book is definitely worth a read.
Some things I learned:
- Forgiveness is a familiar concept
- It’s a practice that we all come face to face with on a regular basis
- Individuals who chose to forgive are able to function at a higher physical capacity
- The benefits of forgiveness may go beyond the constructive consequences that have been established in the psychological and health domains
- Forgivers perceive a less daunting world, and perform better on challenging physical tasks
- The benefits of forgiveness are vast, including healthier relationships, greater spiritual and psychological well-being, less anxiety, lower blood pressure, fewer symptoms of depression, stronger immune system, improved heart health, and a higher self-esteem
- A state of unforgiveness is like carrying a heavy burden – a burden that victims bring with them when they navigate the physical world
- Forgiveness can lighten a burden
- We can forgive other people, ourselves, or even a situation that was beyond anyone’s control
- Forgiveness is a powerful key that unlocks doors to abundant freedom
- Forgiveness is not a feeling; it’s a choice
- Forgiveness sets yourself free while cutting loose the person who hurt you
- Forgiveness is choosing to leave the past behind by not allowing it to control your emotions and actions
- Forgiveness allows God’s healing to begin as bitterness and hatred lose their place in your heart
- Forgiveness is a valuable treasure that will bring riches to your life and those around you
- As you forgive, you release others from the power that hurt had over your life
- Forgiveness is agreeing with God that the price Jesus paid was enough
- Forgiveness sets you free
I needed forgiveness in my life. I knew I did. I just didn’t face it. Kept it bottled inside of me until it tore me apart. I’m going to let you in on where I needed forgiveness in my life. I needed to forgive myself.
October 19, 2015 – my life changed. I lost a close dear friend of mine, to suicide. And I blamed myself. So many regrets filled my head and I started beating myself up. I should’ve noticed something. I should have said she was deeply loved. I should’ve done this, I should’ve done that. But my biggest regret, was my last day with her. I did notice something was off. And I asked her if she was okay. She brushed it off and told me she was fine. I should’ve asked her again. I should’ve pushed her to tell me. Maybe things would be different if I did. I fought with myself for a long time like this. I could’ve done something. I could’ve saved her.
The Lord and I went on a roller coaster to the road of forgiveness. Forgiveness is not easy, I know. But this is not how the Lord wanted me to live. Depressed, self-hate, broken. But God freed me from all of that. While suffering on the cross, Jesus took the sin of the whole world upon Himself. We weren’t even born when He bore our sin that day. He paid the price for our sins though we didn’t deserve forgiveness, because we were guilty. Though we didn’t even ask for forgiveness, He chose to forgive us. Now it’s your turn. Is there anyone you need to forgive? Maybe it’s yourself? Search your heart, and walk the road to forgiveness.
That’s all for now. Until next time(:
Yours in Christ,
Karrie
