Forgiving is For Giving

As a teen, I learned that I could shrink my heart by holding a grudge. 

It started when I confided in a friend; told her what I could hardly tell myself.

I noticed that I felt relieved by releasing my secret.

Then it happened.  As I stood speaking with the pastor at the back of the church, he asked me about the very thing I had kept from every person.but.one.  I stammered low and hurried away from his presence - heart beating fast, tears streaming down, anger welling up and tumbling out faster than I could run.

When I saw her later, I couldn't wouldn't speak.  She asked what was wrong.  I asked her how she could betray my confidence.  We stopped being friends.

Forgiveness seemed to me a strange response for someone who hurt me so.  But as I saw her laughing with her friends...as I wandered lonely through the halls, the truth slowly unfurled: I could not find joy because I shrank my heart.  In my attempt to protect myself from hurt, I locked out the very gift given freely to me - forgiveness.

Like a victim of a spiritual stroke or heart attack, I haven't let my mind be as Christ's or my heart beat as  His.  I missed giving in His order of gracious largeness of heart.  Jack Hayford

How can I not give what has been freely given to me?  I know what God has forgiven in my life.  I am grateful.  My gratitude is shown by imitating Him.

Over time, I have learned to give forgiveness because forgiving is for giving. The lessons came hard; the lessons came steadily. I am grateful for Love that gives and forgives.

For if you forgive  men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.  But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.  Matthew 6:14-15

How do you give?

You may want to visit with Ann for Walk with Him Wednesday. 

Forgiving is for Giving

For several  weeks, thoughts of giving forgiveness bubble up in my mind and heart...and for good reason.

Murmuring has been easy when the workload is heavy and the help is sparse. 

Deep sighs escape frustrated lips as annoying habits resurface.

Blank stares replace aha! moments of creativity.

Then I remember The Key to Everything!

Forgiving is for giving.  Giving keeps my heart softened.

"Forgotten grace breeds unforgiving living." Jack Hayford

Today, I remember endless grace gifts as I give thanks for:

#272  family-filled days of fun and food

#273  father and father-in-law who served in the military for this nation

#274  digging in dirt to make a home for new plants

#275  dancing to the rhythm of love

#276  giving forgiveness - again and again

#277  receiving forgiveness - again and again

#278  lingering conversations after dinner

#279  laughter from the depths of souls

#280  tears falling in empathy

#281  grace, grace, and more grace