Oct 02., 2023   /   Blog

FREELY FORGIVE!

Have you ever met people who were proud or stubborn? Have you noticed they have a hard time saying “I’m sorry” or “Please forgive me; I was wrong”? Why is it so hard to say “I’m sorry?” and “Please forgive me”?

I believe it has a lot to do with false pride and insecurity. Insecure people do their best to protect their fragile egos. Their self-worth is often based on performance, titles, or possessions. False pride is built on things that will pass away and by comparing ourselves to others.

Healthy people are at peace with themselves. They accept their weaknesses and strengths. A Christian has the best opportunity to be healthy because he/she is unconditionally accepted by God. Do you know you are unconditionally accepted by God? That is a core truth you can claim and internalize. Can you repeat after me? “I’m unconditionally accepted and loved by God.”

Another truth that will help your emotional health is to ask for forgiveness from others. Shame and guilt are subconscious time bombs that can only be defused by this form of humility. The Bible says in James 5:16 NIV…

“Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.”

A few years back I made a list of people I hurt with the purpose to make amends with them. I found them and asked them to forgive me. I admitted my faults and made amends. These steps healed me and freed me from my past and the sham of self-protection. 

I’d love for you to try this lifestyle of humility. Make a list of your wrongs and start making some phone calls or visits. Be humble, admit you were wrong, and ask people to forgive you. Asking for forgiveness will not make you feel inferior—it will free you to fly higher and be the real you. You’re a miracle.

Abiding in His grace and truth,

Pastor Christopher