Daily Reflections, Monday, January 14, 2008

Today's Scripture: Luke 17:4

A misunderstanding of the nature of forgiveness is an obstacle that keeps many people from forgiving someone who has wronged them. Many Christians feel that forgiveness includes reconciliation and restoration of a relationship. But that’s not really what forgiveness is.

Forgiveness is simply releasing the bitterness you may or may not have toward another. It’s turning over your enemy to the Lord’s control.

But it’s not the same thing as reconciliation. There are times when someone has wronged you so severely, that restoration is not possible. There are crimes so terrible that a relationship may never be restored.

Reconciliation may happen in due time, but don’t let this hurdle stop you from forgiving someone who has hurt you. Why should you allow bitterness and anger to weight down your soul? Why should you carry these burdens?

Today, ask God for His supernatural strength in forgiving your enemies.

Today's Quote:  I will not permit any man to narrow and degrade my soul by making me hate him. —Booker T. Washington