Picture: Counsel #9 — Forgiveness And Healing CSI 11.1
Perhaps you have been inflicted with terrible, life-long injuries and bear their scars. Maybe they are open wounds of unjust treatment. You live with the pain of rejection and hatred, weary and aching deep inside. “Social justice” seems an unattainable ideal. Yet, God tells you in His Word that He loves you! You are valued and cherished by the King of the Universe! And He proved it by sending His Son, Jesus, to die for you so He can be with you forever![23]“Here is how God showed his love among us: God sent his only Son into the world, so that through him we might have life.” 1 John 4:9 CJB But right now, in this hate-filled world, how can you love and forgive your enemies, and heal from the ongoing hurt they inflict upon you? CSI 11.2
Friend, you are not capable of that kind of love on your own. The desire and ability to forgive can come only from God. “To forgive is to give up [your] right to hate, resent, or take vengeance on the person [or people] who wronged [you].” [24]https://www.adventistreview.org/archives/2005-1502/story2.html (In text emphasis supplied.) You give up your right to “get even.”[25]This being said, true forgiveness requires acknowledgement of the wrong perpetrated and holds the perpetrator accountable of their wrong deeds. Sometimes reconciliation is not possible or healthy. Forgiving others sets you free, and brings healing.[26]https://adventistreview.org/commentary/why-should-i-ever-forgive-you/ Consider Jesus’ example: “He was wounded and crushed because of our sins; by taking our punishment, He made us completely well.” Isaiah 53:5 CEV CSI 11.3
“He forgives all my sins. He heals me.” Psalms 103:3 TLB CSI 11.4
“An unforgiving temper will find no place in heaven.” Ellen White in Letters and Manuscripts, vol. 20, Manuscript 143, 1905, par. 20 CSI 11.5
Reflect: Are there hurts you are holding onto? Is there someone you need to ask God to help you forgive? CSI 11.6
