How to Forgive Someone

 

*_HOW TO FORGIVE SOMEONE_*

It’s natural to feel bitter or develop a grudge when you are hurt by someone. As bitterness builds inside of you, it’s usually followed by a swarm of other emotions—feelings of anger, resentment and rejection accompanied by a desire for revenge.

Toxic emotions don’t change your situation or the person that hurt you. As you let them take over, they do change you, hurting you far more than the other person. And it doesn’t stop there. When bitterness and resentment take control, they can spill over and infect others who aren’t even involved.

This is why the Bible refers to bitterness as poison. “Watch out that no poisonous root of bitterness grows up to trouble you, corrupting many” (Hebrews 12:15). If you aren’t careful, it can hurt you and those close to you. Ask yourself: Do you like being around someone who is bitter or angry?

The Bible goes a step further and explains why it’s important to forgive, “Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior” (Ephesians 4:31).

So, how do we forgive others? There are many paths to forgiveness but nearly all of them include these three steps.

Recognize the importance Jesus put on forgiveness. When He was teaching the disciples how to talk to God, He mentioned it in His model prayer, “Forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us” (Matthew 6:12).

Reject the Devil. Let go of your anger. Don’t give Satan a chance to use your bitterness, “And ‘don’t sin by letting anger control you.’ Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry, for anger gives a foothold to the devil” (Ephesians 4:26-27).

Remember God has forgiven you. “Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others” (Colossians 3:13).

Lastly, have you acknowledged God’s forgiveness? Do you understand the sacrifice Jesus made so you could be forgiven? If not, don’t delay.