Hard Is Not the Same Thing as Bad: The Perspective Shift That Could Completely Change the Way You Mother

by Abbie Halberstadt

Forgiveness can be excruciatingly hard. I will never deny that. But it certainly isn’t bad. Unforgiveness, in fact, is the ultimate bad idea as it has the power to torpedo us in life-destroying ways: Torpedo relationships. Proverbs 10:12 says, “Hatred stirs up strife, but love covers all offenses.” Hinder our prayer life. Psalm 66:18 says, “If I had cherished iniquity in my heart, the Lord would not have listened.” Inhibit healing. James 5:16 says, “Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed.” Make us susceptible to the Enemy’s attack. Ephesians 4:26-27 says, “Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, and give no opportunity to the devil.” Prevent us from seeing God’s goodness in our lives. Hebrews 12:14 says, “Strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord.” Block forgiveness of our sins. Matthew 6:15 says, “If you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.”