Total Forgiveness

Last night was the last night of our Ladies Bible Study Class Total Forgiveness.  The class was based on a book written by R.T. Kendall.  I chose this book because it spoke to my own life.  Three years ago, a very dear friend gave me the book.  I read it immediately and applied it to my life.  It was interesting to teach from it now and see the notations I had written back then.  I could see a definite difference.

You see, I went in believing I had addressed and laid down issues of unforgiveness.  While I was not wrong, God laid on my heart other areas where unforgiveness still loomed and had done so for years.  As many humans often do, I gave it a different name such as "personality conflicts" "disagreements" "differences of opinion."  I called it everything but what it was...unforgiveness!  Through this bible study and some unbelieveable woman that held me accountable, I was able to address those issues. 

I came in with the desire of helping other women address their issues of unforgiveness because I had resolved mine.  I wanted them to share their stories and allow God to direct them in how to address their situation.  What I found was that these women were instrumental in bringing to light my issues.  I believe the lesson was in the transformation they saw in me.  I know they could see the relief, peace, happiness, and joy in my life.   So much so that we didn't want it to end. 

We learned what forgiveness is and what forgiveness is not, we learned what happens when we don't forgive, we learned that we need to "drop our rock" we learned about criticism and judgment but most of all, we learned that we must forgive because 1) God calls us to do it; and 2) God forgave us. 

Forgiveness is not something we do and then put it on the shelf.  Because we interact with others daily,  because of personal relationships and because we are to be the example, it is a daily walk.  While we may think it only involves past relationships, the reality of it is that we often overlook forgiveness of a co-worker, a spouse, a child, those we deal with daily.

What a lesson learned.  What a wonderful group of women.  I am honored that God would call me to lead this class that established lasting relationships with wonderful women.  To God be the Glory!

Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another.  Forgive as the Lord forgave you.  Colossians 3:13