This blog post's title had me by my edges. I was aware that the Holy Spirit wanted us to turn the magnifying glass on ourselves. Many times we blame everyone else and every other thing for all the issues- except ourselves. Could it be that we're the ones who are standing in our own way to freedom, healing and deliverance?
The stronghold of unforgiveness
Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, "Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother when he sins against me? Up to seven times?" Jesus answered, "I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times. (Matthew 18:21-22 Good News Bible)
Colossians 3:13 (NIV) tells us to bear with each other and forgive one another if any of us has a grievance against someone; to forgive as the Lord forgave us, while Matthew 6:14 (NIV) reminds us that if we forgive other people when they sin against us, our heavenly Father will also forgive us.
2. The stronghold of bitterness & offence
It's been proven that bitterness and offence are a root cause of illness and dis-ease in the body. Research has shown that chronic bitterness and resentment can weaken your body's ability to fight off infections and illnesses. The persistent release of stress hormones suppresses the immune system's functioning.
See to it that no one fails to obtain the grace of God; that no “root of bitterness” springs up and causes trouble, and by it many become defiled (Hebrews 12:15 ESV)
Ephesians 4:31-32 (NIV) tells us to get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice; to be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave us.
The antidote is found in Mark 11:25- 'And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.'
3. The issue of non-repentance
Then I acknowledged my sin to You and did not cover up my iniquity. I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the LORD.” And You forgave the guilt of my sin (Psalm 32:5)
The pre-requisite to forgiveness is repentance, which is turning away from sin and wickedness. Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper, but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy (Proverbs 28:13) Acts 3:19 tells us to repent, then, and turn to God, so that our sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord.
We must forgive so that we too, may be forgiven.
Colossians 3:13 reminds us to bear with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgive each other. As the Lord has forgiven us, so we also must forgive.
Luke 6: 37 tells us 'do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.'
From Luke 17:3-4, we're reminded to watch yourselves. “If your brother or sister sins against you, rebuke them; and if they repent, forgive them. Even if they sin against you seven times in a day and seven times come back to you saying ‘I repent,’ you must forgive them.
If there's anyone you need to forgive today, do yourself a favor and release them by your forgiveness.
What if you are the problem? It's time to stop holding people in contempt and plotting revenge. It's time to get out of your own way by addressing unhealed hurt. As you ask God to heal your heart and help you process the hurt, check out this month's bundle- designed to help you break free from the chains of your past and embrace a life filled with healing, forgiveness, and bold love.
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