Recently I had the privilege of talking with my daughter about the power of forgiveness. The teenage years are tumultuous and our teens feel things very deeply. They are still learning how to work things through and negotiate how to handle what life throws at them. It is never easy (as we all know).
Teaching our teens to extend grace and mercy through painful situations, means they in turn receive grace and mercy that actually allows them to live life boundless and free.
Holding onto hurt only keeps us tight in the grasp of pain. Learning to let go and extend forgiveness means we not only release those who have hurt us, but we release ourselves from the prison of pain that keeps us locked up tight. When we deny unforgiveness its power or hold over our lives it can not establish a stronghold over us! So thankful to have been handed the key to unlocking resentment or bitterness that attempts to settle in. (Matthew 6:14)
Honest, open, heartfelt forgiveness is incredibly powerful ~ It has the power to heal.
'Forgiveness is a funny thing. It warms the heart and cools the sting.' - William Arthur Ward
'Forgiveness is a gift you give yourself.' - Suzanne Sommers
Heart and Soul Pursuits
More gratitude here
Heart and Soul Pursuits
More gratitude here