Hello
Today’s Holy Nougat is rough going. Many times the offense committed against us have been internalized and begun to affect our psyche. Especially when the offensive one is close to our hearts.
“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 NLT
Making allowances however, ought not include remaining with an abusive spouse ‘till death …’ But it does involve undertaking the decision to be aware of the triggers which may influence the behavior. Having grasped awareness, avoid the triggers (where possible) and choose to love (perhaps from a safe distance) and pray the person into breakthrough.
Like I said earlier, tough call.
I’m all for working through – and am working on making allowances for the offending persons after I’ve calmed. But I also believe that in praying for transformation, something shifts in us and over time, in them.
Consider Stephen and Saul. Stephen died at the hands of Saul and company; but he died praying for God’s forgiveness. Then Saul had his Damascus experience which transformed him beyond his name and fame! And those others he persecuted eventually forgave him and embraced him into the fold. Obviously someone was praying.
So today; consider mentally or physically letting go of the offender and the baggage of the offense. Invite God to manifest two transformations; (as I’m doing for myself) 1. within; so the hurt inflicted doesn’t break us more or keep us bitter, and healing us to be better and stronger
2. in the one whose actions offended; so they may undergo a full turnaround (metanoia) and walk into the joy of who they’re called to be.
If inclined, we might ask the Lord to protect others from being hurt also, but that might come with time.
May God’s healing grace be our blessing today and beyond. Amen In Christ’s love and grace . . .
