There is much written on forgiveness, including my own references to the blessings that flow to us as we forgive those who mistreated us.  One of the most astounding statements ever uttered and lived out by Yeshua was, “But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back.  Then your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked.” (Luke 6: 35).  This statement confounded the world, it convicted the state of fallen man, and it opened the pathway to Father God.  This is truly love defined and Yeshua fulfilled this in His brief life on earth.  He arose from the dead and has no equal. He was, is and remains the Son of the Living God Almighty.

We know the truth of the Word and by His grace believer’s have a measure of faith.  In this world we have ample opportunity to forgive, bless and pray 

for the prosperity of those who mistreat us, who are our enemies without cause, who despitefully use us, and otherwise do us harm.  We speak forgiveness and we change our perspective to bless rather than curse.  Still, the enemy confronts, taunts, tempts and lures us to give in to hatred.  He suggests all sorts of reasoning to justify our contempt, anything that will keep the hurt and pain fresh in our mind. We typically, reaffirm our forgiveness and seek to move on with the Lord and love.

I had an event recently that called for forgiveness and the location was a frequent reminder. Passing by, I recalled the injustice I experienced.  Then the Holy Spirit seemed to say, “You’re thinking about this because you are looking for revenge.”  He was right, I had fallen into a trap. I would not consciously say, I want to get even with this guy, or I want to get him back for this, but my natural mind was struggling to find a resolution. That resolution is revenge, irrespective, of the platitude given to it.  Scripture is clear, we are not to seek revenge. (Rom.12: 19).

I believe Yeshua came to set us free and He said, “So, if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” (John 8: 36).  A wise lady at our church put it very well, “He knows how to take out the garbage.”  When we are hurt we need to go to the Lord and lay down our pain and surrender ourselves into His care.  He is the great physician, so He can take away any pain, fear, hurt, or injury.  Yeshua will not turn us away, and there are things that are too great for us to bear alone.  Forgiveness is right and love is the best way, but He does not leave us to ourselves. He knows how weak and broken we are in the natural.

When we have been set free and healed of the hurt, the memory may remain, but the pain and emotion will be gone.  Forgiveness will be sustained and flow out of the love God pours into our heart.  Mary, a friend of Yeshua, found a place at His feet.  He commended her for choosing what was best and reminded Martha that only one thing is needed.  That one thing is to be with Yeshua at all times.