Release Unforgiveness’ Grip

Oh, what joy for those whose disobedience is forgiven, whose sin is put out of sight! Yes, what joy for those whose record the Lord has cleared of guilt, whose lives are lived in complete honesty!

─ Psalm 32:1-2 NLT

“It’s much harder to forgive someone when they hurt someone you love,” Lana confessed to her mother through tears.

“That’s definitely true,” her mother, Linda, agreed. “I know you want to make them pay, but ….”

“But I shouldn’t?” Lana asked angrily. “Why not?”

“Unforgiveness steals from you. Letting that anger, resentment, hurt and desire to make someone pay can only poison you. It can cause you to lose yourself and push away those who love you the most.”

Lana’s eyes softened. “I’m sorry, Mom. I know ….”

“It’s okay.” Linda said, patting Lana’s shoulder. “It happened a long time ago. I just hope you can learn from my mistakes.”

Forgiveness constantly flows out of God’s loving nature. It is who He is, and has been from the very beginning. From Adam and Eve, to David, to this present day when we accept Jesus Christ and ask for forgiveness, He doesn’t count our sins against us.

In our verse today from Psalm 32, David expresses his joy in receiving God’s forgiveness for the sins he committed against Bathsheba and Uriah (2 Samuel 11, 12). God’s example to forgive David serves as a beautiful example for us in forgiving others – even when we feel like the person is undeserving.

The gift of forgiveness allows God to restore your joy and your ability to love. Refuse to allow unforgiveness to steal from you. Offer forgiveness freely by faith, trusting God to help you let go even when it’s really hard.

Today’s One Thing

Is there any unforgiveness or resentment in your heart today? Choose to forgive and release any poison festering inside. Ask God to create a new heart within you and experience a new freedom as you’re released from the grip of unforgiveness.

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