Forgiving My Enemies Sets My Soul Free!

“Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye” (Col 3:13).

Forgiving family and friends can be FRUSTRATING, (to say the least!) But it is what GOD commands of His children. Yes ladies, tonight we are talking about good ole’ forgiveness. This is the season of family traditions and wholesome family fun. But unfortunately, for some of us those traditions have been left in the past and family hasn’t existed since 1998. What family member or friend have you not spoken to in a while? Maybe it’s time to find forgiveness in your heart, and make a special house call *wink.*

Most, if not all of us, will be sitting around the table this Thursday eating our favorite home-cooked meals, and giving thanks with the ones we love. While others, will be sitting around the table smiling on the outside, but crying on the inside because that special someone is missing from the table. Let’s face it; pain is a part of this life. We’ve hurt the ones we love, and they have hurt us in return. But do you really want to spend another holiday in agony? From my own personal experiences, continuing the cycle of hatred and pain gets you absolutely nowhere. While you’re walking around cursing your enemies, they are living their lives at peace and totally unaware of any resentment. Not to mention you end up being “the one with the problem” who needs prayer.

As God continues his grace and mercy for each one of us, he encourages us to forgive our enemies and pray for them “…love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you” (Mat 5:44). The longer you harbor the pain of not forgiving a loved one, the longer you will wait to receive His blessings. In the end, you are doing an injustice to GOD and yourself.

No, forgiving isn’t easy. However, it is possible and effective. It’s valuable because it allows us to grow and witness GOD’s greatness. You also get the opportunity to rekindle a great relationship. Just imagine all of the millions of things you do or say in a week that GOD would not approve of. When you go to him humbly in prayer and ask for forgiveness, does he not forgive you? It’s now your turn. And before you decide to contact your loved ones; PRAY. Ask GOD to deliver you His words and wisdom. Also, avoid sending texts or emails this time. I know texting and emailing are a lot less painful, but let our loved ones hear our voices or see our faces if possible. Let’s be personal in our forgiving. (Thanks Kara & Mom).

At the end of the day be thankful to GOD for all of his greatness and for allowing you to spend another Thanksgiving with friends and family. “Giving thanks always for all things unto GOD and the father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ” (Eph 5:20).

Happy Thanksgiving,

KPA

Once raised by a Virtuous single mother, I am now a strong Virtuous Fashionista, who is able to forgive my enemies, who has high expectations of me, who has been created in GOD’s own image, who lovingly submits to my spouse, who understands GOD's love, has an intimate relationship with GOD, supports Breast Cancer Awareness, with a family who honors me, Virtuous friends who love me, and with a giving spirit.