1/14/11
Forgiving Fridays are easier to write about than to practice. Yesterday I semi-publically (is that a euphemism for a public of fewer than 5) made a comment that I very much regretted. It wasn’t exactly the words as much as the implication---the slight rolling of the eyes. It was the skepticism in my heart. I should have been rejoicing at the comment that someone was attending church.
CONVICTION had me return later in the day and ask forgiveness of the one whose comment I was somehow questioning. She was very gracious and said she hadn’t thought a thing about it. She did accept my forgiveness.
Now the next phase has entered, I can’t seem to forgive myself. I keep taking it around the block with me---can’t let it go----beating myself up about it. Is it fear of what others must think of me as I have shown my sinful self? Pride? Is there more I am to do?
God said do you believe my Word, Dotsy? I forgive you.
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. (I John 1:9)
Who is a God like you, who pardons sin and forgives the transgression of the remnant of his inheritance? You do not stay angry forever but delight to show mercy. (Micah 7:18)
Forgive me Lord. Forgive me for not taking you at your Word and relishing your forgiveness and mercy, thereby forgiving myself.
