Forgiveness works both ways!

I’ve been told throughout my Christian life that forgiveness was never about the other person, but about me and my ability to forgive so that I could move forward. To this day, I still agree with that statement, for I am a living witness that for a time my unwillingness to forgive an offense many years ago stagnated my Christian life and I became entangled in a life of sin. When I was finally willing to forgive, I was released from that bondage and was able to move forward to mature in my life, both physically and spiritually.

But, this blog is not about forgiving, it’s about the offender asking forgiveness. So often offenses are swept under the rug in hopes that we can pretend nothing happened and continue on as usual. Well, I have finally gotten SICK AND TIRED of it! Especially in the Christian church.

This is aimed more at the Christian community – those who follow the teachings of Christ. When you offend your brother and sister in Christ, yes they should forgive you - even if you don’t ask for forgiveness. But, at the same time, if you KNOW that you've offended others with your words, actions or attitudes, take responsibility for your actions and ASK FORGIVENESS! Stop giving excuses like, I wasn’t myself when I did that or even, they deserved it. According to Scripture, out of the heart the mouth speaks. Oftentimes when one responds in a hurtful way in hast and anger their TRUE feelings toward you come out.

Second thing, when you ask forgiveness, refrain from saying, “I’m sorry.” or “IF I offended anyone….”

Those who are sorry are generally just sorry they got caught. And those who say. “if I offended,” KNOW that they have, but for some reason those words make them feel less guilty of their actions. Admit you were WRONG and ask for forgiveness.

Let’s all MAN UP & WOMAN UP. Unfortunately, we are going to offend and hurt others- it’s that flesh, that sinful nature. But Greater is HE who lives on the inside of us. ASK FORGIVENESS AND FORGIVE!

For those who are wondering who offended me to the point that brought on this blog? That’s not important. Just know that I have forgiven, but I am just bother by the reoccuring fact that, as in this case, offenders often fail to come back, take responsibility for what they’ve done to hurt and ask forgiveness.