Word for the day "A call to forgiveness"
Genesis 45: 1 (NIV) Then Joseph could no longer control himself before all his attendants, and he cried out, “Have everyone leave my presence!” So, there was no one with Joseph when he made himself known to his brothers. 2 And he wept so loudly that the Egyptians heard him, and Pharaoh’s household heard about it.3 Joseph said to his brothers, “I am Joseph! Is my father still living?” But his brothers were not able to answer him, because they were terrified at his presence.
True forgiveness is the action needed for authentic reconciliation.
Psychologists generally define forgiveness as a conscious, deliberate decision to release feelings of resentment or vengeance toward a person or group who has harmed you, regardless of whether they actually deserve your forgiveness. When we embrace true forgiveness, we can move forward in our relationships in a progressive manner.Our relationships with family and friends will not endure the test of time if the people involved are unable to administer forgiveness.I don't just mean saying the words "I forgive you" but actually relating to your spouse, child, parent, or friend with your actions that sincerely demonstrate forgiveness.If we are not careful we can to our own detriment only give voice to forgiveness and experience a short-term component of forgiveness.However, when our act of forgiveness isn't evidenced by the way we live, true reconciliation will never reach the intent the Lord purposed for our lives.
Forgiveness does not mean we dumb down the significance of an offense.
I have personally discovered that just as important as defining what forgiveness is, we must have an understanding of what forgiveness is not.Researchers who study or teach forgiveness make clear that when you forgive, you do not trivialize or deny the seriousness of an offense against you.Forgiveness does not mean forgetting, nor does it mean excusing offenses.Though forgiveness can help reconcile a damaged relationship, it doesn’t obligate you to reconcile with the person who harmed you or release them from personal accountability.At those moments when I speak on forgiveness, I know that I will be speaking to a real need in people's lives. Every one of us has been hurt deeply by someone else.Maybe a parent, spouse, relative, a sibling, a close friend, a loved one, or perhaps a stranger. Sometimes It is a hurt that came from some violation or harmful act.It may have been something that somebody should have done but didn't. Or maybe something that took place over many years. It may be something that happened in a moment.Why does the Lord make forgiveness of such great value for our lives? I have discovered personally that forgiveness reflects God's character.When we forgive we reflect the Father's grace and love. The standard is this: forgive as God has forgiven you.Forgiveness gives us the opportunity to extend to others what God has extended to us. Forgiveness not only releases us physically and emotionally, but it also releases us Spiritually.One of the greatest barriers to effective life overall and spiritual vitality is an unforgiving heart.In fact, unforgiveness is ultimately a destructive force to each of us reaching God’s plan, purpose, and potential in our destiny.
Point to ponder
We will have wasted years and experience broken hearts in our life’s outcomes when we harbor bitterness and are unwilling to forgive.Remember your family, friends, and even your foes need your willingness to forgive and be set free.
Quote-
Forgiveness liberates the soul, that is why it is such a powerful weapon. Nelson Mandela
Special Thanks!
Our Leadership team is especially thankful for those of you who provided financial donations and support in the month of September 2018 by partnering with us in efforts to advance the kingdom of God in this 21st century season: Special thanks to Ms. Quiana Volney, Ms. Annette Straker, Mr. David Straker, Mr. Kenneth Washington, Ms. Theresa Lewis, Mr. William Wilson, Mother Itholear Abbott, Mrs. Angela Harrison, Mrs. Barbara Mason, Mrs. Linda Patterson, and Ms. Gertrude Scott.Thank you for using the Word Cup devotionals brought to you through Grace and Truth Leadership. Why don’t you take the opportunity to write to us on our blog and let us know how we are doing in serving you, Great people.We are a faith-based, donor-supported ministry. If you have been touched by these daily devotionals and would like to make a monthly pledge or a special gift of any amount, please use the link below to give as the Lord leads.Follow me on Twitter @James Baker_jr as I endeavor to encourage and empower leaders of today and tomorrow!Kingdom Blessings,Pastor James Baker, Jr.