Grief Bites: A New Approach to Growing Through GriefSample

Sometimes, when we go through a grief experience, there is a need to forgive those who have hurt or offended us.

Forgiveness and mercy are so important during times of grief because if we do not forgive, we choose to willingly disobey God.

It’s not always easy to forgive. The greater the offense, the harder it is to forgive.

But, when we choose to forgive others, we find restoration for our own hearts.

The Bible tells us to be careful not to become bitter. Bitterness eats away at our very soul when we refuse to forgive. A lack of forgiveness harms ourselves and everyone around us.

Forgiveness is NOT condoning another person’s wrong behavior or excusing the wrong they did, and it does not mean we foolishly throw ourselves into a bad situation. Forgiveness is simply a loving courtesy we extend to others because God extends that same love and courtesy to us. It is taking someone off of our hook and placing them at the altar of God...and trusting God to deal with the person in His way and His time.

God shows the importance of forgiving others in Job 42. I think it is interesting that God chose to bless Job only AFTER Job chose to forgive his friends and interceded for them in prayer. That is the exact moment God restored Job...and gave him a double portion of favor.

Seek God's heart today. Share with Him how others have hurt you. Ask Him to give you a heart of forgiveness, grace, and mercy. Choose to forgive those who have hurt or offended you and then intercede for them in prayer. Go the 2nd mile and ask God to bless your offender’s life. God has the power to heal your hurts and turn your broken heart into joy...He has the ability to give you the extra measure of grace you need to forgive others. Forgiveness opens the door to joy, healing, and renewal. Prayerfully ask God to help you to forgive others today.