Let It Go

Watching the news, scrolling through social media, or just taking a watchful eye on what goes on around us, I can't help but notice that it seems like everyone is out for vengeance. It's ridiculous honestly. We have talked repeatedly about forgiveness and it's a huge topic with me because it is the essential piece for our own salvation and God's grace.

"Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, 'Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.' Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good." Romans 12:19-21

God calls us to show grace to everyone, but showing grace to a person who's hurt us is a difficult prospect. It begins with another difficult task, choosing to forgive the person. And it's important to remember that forgiveness is not excusing or denying what the person did, nor does it require us to associate with the individual. Forgiveness is giving up the natural desire to see the person who wronged you get what's coming to them.

But I still hear it all the time. Sometimes we act like we forgive but yet we openly say, "I can't wait till they get theirs!" That's missing the mark.

The person may have to face the consequences of their actions, but you no longer desire to see them hurt. You acknowledge that they wounded you and "owe" you in a sense, but by forgiving, you are choosing to release them from that debt.

When we forgive we also show grace to God, because that is what He did for us when He forgave our sins. Forgiving a person who hurt you is one of the most gracious things you can do because you are choosing love over vengeance. When you trust God to bring justice in His timing and His way, you not only show grace to the person who hurt you, but you also open yourself to receive healing and experience freedom.

Y'all, let it go and have a great weekend.

Be Nice. Grace Wins.

FMJ