'Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us.'
It's with thanks that I acknowledge the feedback that I have received from my last blog entry, both electronically and verbally. This has been most helpful to me in my exploration of this important subject.
What makes forgiveness really tricky are those instances where the person who hurt you does not think they have done anything wrong. If this is the case they won't show any remorse, which won't make your own task of reaching forgiveness and moving on any easier. You certainly won't be able to reach a point of reconciliation. However, it's worth the effort. Forgiveness is still possible.
It's with thanks that I acknowledge the feedback that I have received from my last blog entry, both electronically and verbally. This has been most helpful to me in my exploration of this important subject.
What makes forgiveness really tricky are those instances where the person who hurt you does not think they have done anything wrong. If this is the case they won't show any remorse, which won't make your own task of reaching forgiveness and moving on any easier. You certainly won't be able to reach a point of reconciliation. However, it's worth the effort. Forgiveness is still possible.
Until you have worked through this issue and reached this point, being near the person who hurt you may still prove to be tense and stressful. If at all possible, try and avoid similar encounters. Respect yourself and do what seems best. If you choose to attend, don't be surprised that things might be awkward, or situations may seem 'charged'. Remember to keep an open heart and mind. You may find that simply meeting up again will help you to move forward.
Getting another person to change his or her actions, behaviour or words isn't the point of forgiveness. It's more personal and intimate than that. Think of forgiveness more about how it can change your life — by bringing you peace and subsequent healing. Forgiveness takes away the power the other person continues to wield in your life.
In the course of this short series I have concentrated on the subject of forgiveness from the position of the injured party, however I am reminded by a recent study on the Lord's Prayer that this is a two-way street. Perhaps you are the one in need of forgiveness, by carrying this burden for so long? If so, there needs to be an admission of the wrongdoing, some communication of your sincere sorrow or regret, and a specific request for forgiveness — without making excuses. Remember, however, you can't force someone to forgive you. Others need to move to forgiveness in their own time. Simply acknowledge your faults and admit your mistakes. Then commit to treating others with compassion, empathy and respect.
Matthew 6:14 (New International Version - UK)
For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.
You may also like to check out the following link: http://www.lords-prayer.co.uk
You may also like to check out the following link: http://www.lords-prayer.co.uk
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