I was praying for someone today, and as I was speaking to them, I could see and feel the trauma and hurt they had experienced. But as I listened and waited on Jesus to speak, I sensed that the freedom and breakthrough they were seeking had a lot to do with letting go of the past and forgiving those who had hurt them.
Forgiveness brings freedom, and if we want to live full lives and move forward to all that God has for us, He asks that we allow Him into the traumatic places, the hurt, and the spaces in our hearts and minds where we often keep everyone out because of the damage that has been done.
Jesus said, "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance [to the full, till it overflows]." (John 10:10 AMP).
One way we receive this abundant life is to make sure we aren't carrying weights from the past around us, unforgiveness, grievances, and undealt with trauma. Nothing good comes from burying toxic things away inside, and Jesus knows that, so he says, "Cast all your cares upon me because I care for you." (1 Peter 5:7)
As I prayed today and shared about how to move past trauma, forgiveness started to flow, and with it, letting go as Jesus' gentle hand brought healing and restoration. It's a process but so worth it.
I encourage you to come to Jesus with anything that has been burdening and weighing you down. Give him your cares and choose to forgive anyone that you feel has harmed or hurt you. We only harm and hinder moving into the life God has for us if we hold onto grievances and unforgiveness. However, when we live practicing forgiveness, we find freedom and with it restoration, healing, and open doors to new opportunities and a brand new life.
"Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland." (Isaiah 43:18-20)
"So if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift." (Matthew 5:23-34)
"Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins." (1 Peter 3:8)
Prayer: Lord, I come to you and give you all my cares and concerns. I choose to forgive all those who have hurt or wronged me and to trust that you are working all things together for my good. Thank you for the new doors and opportunities opening for me today. In Jesus name Amen.