Break free from hurt

When we harbour unforgiveness or negative feelings towards someone, it can overwhelm us. We not only think about their actions towards us but also rehearse what we'd like to say to them - or to other people about them. If we're doing this, we haven't quite reached the end of our process of forgiveness with that person.

If we want to live a life free from these overwhelming, not-so-positive emotions, it's so important to keep the forgiveness process going, with a heart open to God, until we've completely let go. One way to make sure that process reaches its conclusion is to take that person to God, in a good way, even while we're still hurting. Luke 6:28 NLT says, 'Pray for those who hurt you.' Hmm... that's present tense. When we pray for those who are doing us wrong, even while it's happening, it's the only way we'll ever truly let go. (Obvious aside: if we're in any sort of physical, emotional or spiritual danger, let's pray, but also get the help and safety we need).

Let's approach God without pretending that we've let the problem go. Even whilst being honest about our hurt, let's pray for that person and the situation we're in.



So what now? Luke 6:27-28 NLT says: 'Love your enemies! Do good to those who hate you. Bless those who curse you. Pray for those who hurt you.' If you're in the process of forgiving someone, ask God to guide your steps to freedom from hurt. God loves you both and wants you both to be free.





— SCRIPTURE —

'Pray for those who hurt you.' Luke 6:28 NLT
— SOULFOOD —

Exo 13-15, John 3:1-8, Ps 23, Pro 26:10-12