Wednesday, September 20, 2023

Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

Romans 12:21

Wouldn't it be great if we could just push a button, forgive our perpetrator, and move on? Unfortunately, that is not the case. Our walking in freedom requires that we walk forgiveness out. It requires that we put the past behind us, knowing full well that we will not forget. So what do you do with the memories? How do you NOT be overcome by evil, when it is so easy to live there?

It is a sweet thing when we have an issue with the person who hurt us, and they are willing to work out the issue with us. Unfortunately, that is not always the case. Most times, we may be enslaved by negative feelings toward someone who has moved on to their next victim. They are not even thinking about us, but we are still left to walk it out.

1. Confess where you are. The Bible says that we are to confess our faults and pray for one another so that we are healed (James 5:16).

2. Talk it out with a confidante. The Bible repeatedly declares the importance of wise counsel. The book of Proverbs is full of instructions about wise counsel (Proverbs 11:14; 12:15; 19:20-21; 27:17). Sit down and honestly share with someone you trust.

3. Once you have forgiven the person, don’t allow yourself to replay the situation. Ruminating over an incident of pain only gives place to more pain. It serves no good. Give room for the Lord to do the work in you so that you can ultimately let it go.

4. Ask the Lord to help you. Forgiveness is difficult, but it is very possible. Remember that forgiveness has nothing to do with how you feel; it is a choice. When we choose forgiveness, we know that is God’s will, and He miraculously will show up. This allows him to access the wound so that he can heal us.

PRAYER: Lord, help me to let it go. In the Name of Jesus, Amen.