Layers

Layers

Forgiveness isn’t always a onetime thing. There are layers of it that need to be recognized. . . . Sometimes we think we have forgiven, but we don’t realize how many layers there are. And if we don’t deal with each layer, hardness of heart can set in.

Stormie Omartian

What is the state of your heart? Practicing forgiveness is important to you and to the person you need to forgive. Refusing to forgive places you in a self-imposed bondage to the past. Ask Me to search your heart. Are you holding grudges? Are you avoiding someone because of what she’s said about you or done to you? When someone has asked you for forgiveness, have you said, “I forgive you,” but later realized you’re still harboring bitterness and anger?

Be aware of the layers of hurt that caused the initial problem. Harsh words are often hard to forget, and the memory of evil deeds may be deeply embedded in your heart. The apostle Paul said, “Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you” (Ephesians 4:31-32). Allow Me to heal your heart and that of the offender. This may take some time. Let Me peel back the layers of your pain and breathe My healing into your soul through Scripture and through the peace you will find in My presence.

Peter came to him and asked, “Lord, how often should I forgive someone who sins against me? Seven times?” “No, not seven times,” Jesus replied, “but seventy times seven!”

Matthew 18:21-22