Offensive Forgiveness

I know the title probably makes little sense to you, but allow me a moment to explain... 

Last month, I shared in a brief conversation with someone who wanted to "confess" they'd been harboring ill feelings toward me. They were offended by something I had said or did -- years ago. They couldn't even remember verbatim what it was, but they were still mad. They'd held onto it for all this time allowing it to eat away at them and poison them - mind, body & soul.

I knew something had changed between us, but because we weren't really "close" I wrote it off as nothing major. Little did I know this change was really the result of miscommunication and lack of intimacy in the relationship. Neither of us knew each other well to know (1) how actions/words were meant, or (2) that one would take offense by such words/actions.

Needless to say, I was completely taken aback by this confession. Both the timing and the content caught me by surprise. However, at the end of the tearful and emotional exchange forgiveness was sought and given. Walking away, I felt challenged by the Holy Spirit to review those I was holding something against.

The Bible tells us... "But when you are praying, first forgive anyone you are holding a grudge against, so that your Father in heaven will forgive your sins, too.'" (Mark Eleven Twenty-Five) Like this old friend, I had been holding on to some grudges. Some of them were buried so deep and held on to for so long, I did not realize I was harboring such thoughts and feelings. Upon some soul searching and reflection, I acknowledged some things I thought I was over were actually still holding me in bondage.

Looking some offenses in the face has not been easy. While some quickly disappeared once acknowledged, others will require a bit more work in order for true forgiveness and healing to take place.  You cannot change what you will not confront. Confrontation is not easy nor comfortable. It can sometimes be volatile and is often done incorrectly. However, when it comes to areas of life that require change for the sake of liberty and growth, confrontation is necessary.

I'm learning that in order to truly be the example of royalty God created me to be, forgiveness is necessary. Forgiveness of others. Forgiveness of self. Forgiveness of past hurts. Forgiveness of hurts to come. What offenses are you still holding on to? I guarantee you - it's doing more harm to you than the one guilty of the offense. Do yourself a favor... let it go. You'll be better for it!

Besides, no one wants a king or queen with a constant scowl on their face because they're holding on to offenses. ;-)

...In His Majesty's Name.