Forgiveness does not change the past, but it does enlarge the future—Paul Boese

Today is Ash Wednesday.  It is the beginning of the 40 days of preparation (Lent) that leads to the celebration of Chris’s death (Good Friday) , burial and resurrection (Easter). On this day, we focus on our sins, repentance and God’s forgiveness and grace. It is a reminder of the price our Lord paid to free us from the grip of sin.

So today, as we think about the seriousness of the cross and what it means, examine your heart in the area of relationships. Take a few moments to engage in quiet contemplation.

Is there anger or unforgiveness that you are holding in your heart? Has someone hurt you and you haven’t been able to let go of that hurt?

Today would be a great day to let go, give it to God and begin to pray for that person who hurt you.

1. Choose to forgive: You won’t always feel like forgiving someone but making that choice allows God to heal those hurts and wounds.

2. View forgiveness as an act of obedience to God. Romans 12:19-21 reminds us that God is  the One who will deal with people who have hurt us.

3. Remove the offense through prayer and release.

4. Meditate on Scripture.

5. Leave your hurt and wound at the foot of the cross. Nail the sin of unforgiveness at that place. Christ died for it.

6. Pray for the offender. This is probably the most difficult. In Matthew 5, Jesus tells us to pray for those who persecute us. Release all judgment and allow God to complete His healing in you.

For more help: Breaking Free from Anger and Unforgivness by Dr. Linda Mintle