Going In On Anger and Forgiveness -Part 1

Going in on Anger and Forgiveness - Part 1

Boaz Ministries


Since our last post, we've been having conversations with individuals and couples who continue to struggle with anger from past wrongs. And though we as believers know we are to forgive those who trespass against us - it's easier said than done.

However, forgiveness is God's solution for bitterness, resentment and hostility; and it is awesome and powerful! In the next few days, we will present some insights from InTouch Ministries with Biblical references to help us on the path of freedom from the bondage of unforgiveness and malice. This information is good whether you are single, engaged, married or divorced - because our Lord would have us live in peace, liberty and the abundance that comes from casting all our cares upon Him...and letting go of the past.

I OBSTACLES TO FORGIVENESS

A. Lack of desire: You don’t want to forgive.

B. Rehearsing what happened: Some people continue to dwell on the hurtful experience.

C. Pride: We may believe the other person should initiate reconciliation.

D. Fear: Some resist forgiving to avoid looking weak, being misunderstood, or feeling rejected.

E. Negative advice: Well-meaning friends don’t always offer godly counsel.

F. Partial forgiveness: People try to pick and choose which offenses can be pardoned.

G. Relying on emotions: Don’t make the mistake of waiting until you feel like forgiving.

H. Expecting quick results: Forgiveness can take time.

I. Justifying the other person’s actions: Some people will rationalize what happened so that they don’t have to forgive.

II SCRIPTURAL PRINCIPLES

A. Our fellowship with God suffers when we refuse to release others from their sins against us (Matt. 6:14-15).

B. We should forgive over and over. In Matthew 18:22, Jesus tells Peter that he must forgive his brother “seventy times seven” times.

C. You and I must be willing to extend mercy towards those who sin against us, because God has forgiven each of us of so much (Matt. 18:23-35).

D. We must deliberately turn away from anger and malice (Eph. 4:31-32).