Forgiveness is not something we do for other people.

We do it for ourselves- to get well & move on.

Our preacher taught a lesson about those with unforgiving spirits.  Since I have fallen victim to this before, I took notes & have studied this.  People who have an unforgiving spirit are in for a lot of uncalled for things.

This list is what our minister gave regarding those with an unforgiving spirit:

1. You will develop emotional problems.
2. You will ruin your physical health.
3. You will withdraw from God.
4. The devil will harbor hatred in you heart.
5. You will lose your soul.

On the Mayo Clinic website, there is an article which talks about the benefits of forgiving.

What are the benefits of forgiving someone?

Letting go of grudges and bitterness can make way for compassion, kindness and peace. Forgiveness can lead to:

• Healthier relationships
• Greater spiritual and psychological well-being
• Less anxiety, stress and hostility
• Lower blood pressure
• Fewer symptoms of depression
• Lower risk of alcohol and substance abuse

True forgiveness is possible.  Here’s how:

1. Determine when you forgive, to let that issue go & do not raise that issue again. Expect occasional imperfections from people in your life.
2. Ask the Lord for strength, to not take revenge.  God is the only One qualified & has the right to be in the vengeance department.  He is a righteous judge.  He tries to teach us- “I’ll do to you what you did to me” will never balance it’s self out. Try to learn this as early as possible.  It will save you much heartache.
3. Remember those you have hurt.
4. Rebuild the relationship.
5. Pray for that person each day.
6. Remember the cross of Christ.

If the hurtful event involved someone whose relationship you otherwise value, forgiveness can lead to reconciliation. This isn’t always the case, however. Reconciliation might be impossible if the offender has died or is unwilling to communicate with you. In other cases, reconciliation might not be appropriate. Still, forgiveness is possible — even if reconciliation isn’t.   See my blog “When God says forgiveness just isn’t enough”. It is a good lesson reminder on how just because you say you are sorry, does not guarantee the relationship will be put back together as it once was.

Always remember kindness is free.  If we are committing ourselves to kindness, then we will be less likely to be needing forgiveness.

Thank you for stopping by today.  I hope you are inspired to forgive, in some way.  I have to be going now, because I should be washing clothes!