Dear Reader,
One of the bravest prayers we’ve found we can say is when we choose to ask the Lord to show us the people who betrayed and hurt us through His eyes. We think it defines a new depth of character and strength—because in doing so, we surrender our offense and anger in exchange for compassion toward people who may not deserve it.
This type of surrender isn’t a cop out or a way to let people who shouldn’t be in your life. Releasing people doesn’t mean they get to come back to you and engage in an intimate relationship.Kindness and compassion are godly responses that allow us to release people and make room for the Lord to work in our hearts. It takes self-control and humility to continue to act in a God-honoring manner instead of taking your own vengeance.
Staying angry is exhausting. Running from what you must face only holds you back.
But man, the freedom that comes when you can acknowledge people who hurt you as a Child of God AND someone locked in their brokenness, it often stirs your heart in a new way. A gentle way that leads you to pouring out blessings and praying for their heart to be impacted by God. For their healing instead of their downfall.
We think of Jesus, on the cross, betrayed by a friend and still crying out to the Lord on behalf of the people that ridiculed Him. “Forgive them, Father, they know not what they do…”
Have you ever uttered a prayer like that? A complete release even though your trust felt violated? Your Boundaries? Your Safety?
We know that this subject can deeply nuanced and there may be pain associated with whoever comes to mind—we are aware of the challenge. And we hear you, friend. We know the pain of betrayal.
However, the question often boils down to this: what do you love more? Your comfort in your wounded unforgiveness and offense, or your Heavenly Father, who forgave everything you have done and will do?
It feels safe to hold up a shield of unforgiveness and drive away any reminders of the pain. Yet, it’s a prison and only drives you away from living as we ought to. Will you not offer the same mercy to others that was given to you?
Today, we want to challenge you to pray for those who have hurt you and to put the anger to rest by releasing it to the Lord.
“Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.”
Luke 6:36 NIV
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What is Awakening Hope Ministries?
We are here because we understand what it’s like to crave intimacy with God. We built this ministry out of a belief that we’re always growing and becoming more aware of Christ working in and through us. In 2011, Awakening Hope Ministries was born out of the overwhelming passion that God has put in us to use the gifts He has given us to impact the body of Christ and to be a witness to the world. Our mission is to preach the uncompromising Word of God, worship with abandon, pray, and minister to anyone willing to receive.
We want an awakening.
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Lighting Fires and Fanning Flames,
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