From Fear to Forgiveness

When I was about 45 years old, God gave me an undeniable urge to confront my father, who had sexually abused me throughout my childhood.

I was terrified to experience his anger again, and I did. But I also accomplished what God was leading me to do. And it helped me break free.  

Here’s what I want to help you understand:  

When God gives you direction for your life, don’t run from it, embrace it...no matter how scary or difficult it may seem. Let God lead you step by step, believing He loves you and that He’s acting on your behalf. (See John 3:16-17 and Romans 8:28)  

Giving Way to God’s Way

When you’re hurting and angry like I was, and are unwilling or struggling to forgiving that person who hurt you, here’s what you need to consider:  

God wants to be your Vindicator. (See Hebrews 10:30)  

He wants to be your Healer. (See Psalm 103:3 and Psalm 147:3)  

To receive God’s forgiveness, you must forgive. A merciful attitude will restore your relationship with God. (See Matthew 6:14 AMP and Luke 6:37)  

If you love your enemies and do good, your reward will be great. (See Luke 6:35)  

These truths will lead you tenderly along your journey, just as they led me...to confront my father about the pain he put me through...to forgive him for everything he had done...and to provide for his needs in his old age.  

Believe me, none of that was easy. But if I hadn’t done what God led me to do back then, I am sure I wouldn’t be in the position I am today!  

Let the Scriptures above and others like them work like medicine on your heart. Let go of anger and bitterness, do good...and trust God to bless your life.  

“But, God, It’s Just Not Fair!”

It might seem outrageously unfair to forgive. In fact, the person(s) you need to forgive may not deserve it. They may not realize how much pain they’ve caused you...and they may not even care! And still God’s command is to forgive. 

But here’s the thing: God understands exactly how how you feel (see Hebrews 4:15). He knows what you’re going through...and He is only asking you to do what He has already done Himself.  

Romans 5:8 says, But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

1 Peter 2:24 says, He Himself bore our sins in His body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By His wounds you have been healed.

I am well aware that forgiving a person is more difficult than reading about it. But anything God asks us to do, He will give us the strength to do if we are willing to obey Him. Not only that, His Word says that He will bless you for your obedience! (See Isaiah 30:18 AMP)

God has a wonderful, joyful life prepared for you—and if you will trust Him enough to obey His Word, you will enjoy that life. If you don't, then you will miss it. God will still love you, but you will miss the joy of His good plan.

Do yourself a favor and follow God’s direction for your life. Refuse to miss one good thing He has arranged for you!