Forgiveness

As I wrap up the past seven weeks of a small group on Forgiveness by Kay Arthur, I am more aware of how much I owe to Him who has forgiven me. Any temptation I have to hold on to grudges or frustrations because of hurts intended or unintended is my own lack of forgiving others. And, even avoidance, itself, can be a form of unforgiveness.

I am a person who wants to "communicate" and clear the air but I wonder if there are times when we must hold our tongues for the sake of love and time to test my motives. Not everything will be worked out on my timetable, therefore "patiently" I must wait. In the meantime, I must place my motives of wanting to resolve everything on the altar and see how they burn. Will they burn like chaff and with an offensive odor or will they be refined and create a fragrant, pleasing aroma? Only time will tell.

I am also one who seeks to "keep peace" perhaps at the expense of courageously confronting issues. Hmm! Thus boldly I must choose my battles wisely and with those, whom He has given me to maintain relationship with, I can see it more as as dance. Therefore I will step out and dance gracefully or spar boldly whichever the situation calls for and as He leads...

I am also "stubborn" causing me to not let go of the convictions for which I am passionate. Perhaps laying low for awhile in order to clarify who I am will once again test my motives and whether such convictions are truly His or only self-righteous attempts to exalt myself. Recognizing more and more over time how sinful I really am, waivering between hypocrisy, lack of courage, and pride.

And on my own, whoa I would crush from such inadequacies. Thankfully throughout the day, at the end of the day, and at the start of the next I can bow to the One who sustains, guides, and the One who should be glorified. Not myself!