Forgive and Reflect Ser. Scott Alan www.eccl.org Copyrights 2013-2021. All rights reserved.
We would like you to learn a new phrase. While the ultimate goal is to eventually forget about it, there is a process we promote for God to forgive us. It should become both reflexive and reflective. Start with the principle of forgiving seven times seventy (Matthew 18:22). It is safe to assume that we will probably experience repeat offenders, until they have broken free from their chains.
Let’s also remember that it’s not necessarily the same actor committing new offenses. Consider the possibility of Satan reigniting an old issue we thought we had thoroughly discharged. Resisting the devil again may include repeated prayers for blessing the offender, while reviewing the thoroughness of our previous forgiveness. In either case, we need to react instantly to the assault, regardless of the source.
Next, seize the opportunity to reflect on how we might be offending others in a similar way. After all, when we are irritated by someone else, it is often a trait in ourselves which is coming to light. Also, prayerfully consider how you might be offending God in a similar manner. You might be surprised at what He illuminates! This process can be another helpful way to replace hypocrisy with humility.
During this self-examination, remember who paid for your sins and how. Meditate, but don’t obsess. Whether the bad behaviors are yours, somebody else’s, or both, trust that the payment is final. We approach forgetting by remembering this. Forgive and reflect! |