20 Days Of Relational HealthSýnishorn

Sometimes I rearrange hard conversations until they tilt in my favor. But this record-keeping of wrongs fails to solve the problem. It leads me down a dangerous road toward sin through gossiping, bitterness, or withholding forgiveness. But the grace of Jesus adds salve to those wounds. It helps heal my hurts.

The Lord came to earth, offering grace to all. He keeps no record of wrongs. He refuses to rehash tilted conversations, too. The Savior of the world simply offers a generous dose of unmerited favor to all who will accept it–including perfectionists, those with dark or troubled pasts, people whose words pierce the hearts of others, and yes, even women who hold one-sided chats in the shower. 

Although I’m tempted to think I’m innocent concerning my rehashed conversations, none of us are free from sin. But Jesus forgave us and showers us with grace anyway. 

These days, when I’m tempted to rehash hurts or offenses, I focus on Jesus instead. I hold close the gift of grace my Savior gives, remembering how much I need it and that His grace is sufficient. The Lord loves and forgives undeserving people—even those like me. And He calls me to love, to encourage, to speak truth, to build others up, and point them to Him. 

Refocusing on Jesus’ free gift of grace, I’m lured from the temptation to gossip or grow bitter and am drawn to prayer, forgiveness, and love instead.

I’d much rather have a conversation with Him than myself!

The next time you’re hurt or offended, why not consider Jesus and the love and grace He offered you? Focusing there helps heal our wounds.

~ Kristi Woods