Let It Go

Ever struggle with forgiving yourself? Sometimes that seems so much harder than forgiving others. But I've come to realize that many times my struggle with forgiving myself stems from not truly forgiving others. Memories of past wrongs and hurts are quick to return, bringing with them intense pain. My human side cries out for vindication and revenge. I want the other party to pay for this!



Then the Lord, in His still, quiet voice, reminds me of all that I've been forgiven. If I keep such a tight grip on what others have "done" to me, I can't open my hands to receive the forgiveness that is mine through Jesus Christ. In the process, I also hold on to not forgiving myself. After all, if I hold others to a strict and unrelenting set of standards, I must also do the same for myself.



The word for forgiveness used in the Bible carries with it a sense of letting go, of not holding it to account. The past is over and done with. We can't go back and undo anything, either on our part or on the part of anyone else. Holding onto it only causes further pain and keeps us from moving forward in our relationship with Jesus and with others.



God has graciously forgiven me so much. How can I refuse to forgive in light of His grace and forgiveness?



Father God, help me to remember that everything that has come into my life--both good and bad--has been allowed by You. And You've promised to use everything for my good. I've seen evidence of this promise in my life. Grant me the ability to let go--to not charge it to their account--and in the process fully receive the gift of Your forgiveness. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.