The Men of Iron Minute

by Jeff Reimold | Chief Executive Mentor

Working Out Forgiveness

It has been 5 years since I experienced church hurt firsthand. At this point, it is mostly behind me but if I’m reminded of it, I immediately go back to all the hurt and pain that I experienced. I honestly don’t know if it will ever fully go away. I pray that it does because I don’t want to feel bitter or angry towards anyone or especially a church that I know God is using for Kingdom Impact. 

The previous two messages I talked about some healing steps that you can take to make progress in your recovery journey. As a recap they are…

Recognize God’s character and to see God for who He is to you.

The third step is definitely the hardest if you ask me, but I believe it is the most freeing of all. Forgiveness. Yea, I said it. I know it seems like an impossible request, but Jesus clearly had strong feelings about forgiveness. The forgiveness He offers us is the primary reason He came to earth in the first place. The simple thing about forgiveness that we often get a little twisted is that it is for the other person’s benefit. I submit to you that going through the process of forgiveness is more about growing your own character and regaining perspective for yourself than for anyone who offends you. 

So, how do you do it? I don’t think there is any firm rule or timeline. For me, it always starts with praying that God will help me see people as He does. Help me to realize they are flawed the same way I am. For me to start looking at people with the same compassionate look that Jesus so clearly did throughout the New Testament. I pray these things repeatedly until I begin to have a softened heart towards them.

Try that and see how God works in your heart and mind. 

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