Resentment And Buried Grudges

We feel hurt when another’s unkind words or actions cause our self-worth to be devalued.  If amends are not made, we often carry grudges against those who offended us, and this causes us even further harm.  Vengeful thinking and bitter grudges will sicken our soul and cause damage to those who are close to us.   

Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone. Dear friends, never avenge yourselves. Leave that to God. For it is written, “I will take vengeance; I will repay those who deserve it,” says the Lord.  Instead, do what the Scriptures say: “If your enemies are hungry, feed them.  If they are thirsty, give them something to drink, and they will be ashamed of what they have done to you.”  (Romans 12:18-20 NLT)

Healing will come if we are willing to let go of the wrong we suffered.  Why not take the lingering pain of the offence against us and the grudge we are carrying to the cross where Jesus atoned for both? Why not choose to forgive and turn the person who harmed us over to God?  Why not be guided in all our ways by the love of God? 

See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!  All who have this hope in him purify themselves, just as he is pure. (1 John 3:1a;3 NIV)

Prayer:  Heavenly Father, As You have forgiven my sin against You and others, help me to forgive others for their sin against me.  I desire to be free from all the grudges and bitterness that I have held against those who harmed me.  Please help me to let go and allow the healing process to begin.  Amen