Go Forward With Forgiveness

As the end of the year nears, businesses often adjust their inventories, non-profit organizations seek additional donations, and conscientious individuals reflect on the past 12 months.

Another valuable practice to adopt is the perspective of "Going Forward with Forgiveness." Nothing can steal your joy or stifle your growth more than unresolved conflict. Before you think, "Ray, you don't understand my situation," let me clarify that forgiveness can often be offered immediately in most circumstances. However, there are unique cases where something serious has occurred, and it may take time, along with the assistance of professionals and prayer, to truly forgive someone who has caused significant pain to you or your family.

A character in the Bible who demonstrated that the hard work of forgiveness can propel you forward is Joseph from the Old Testament. His life story reads like a movie from the Lifetime Network! Joseph's brothers were jealous of him, which led them to fabricate a lie about his death to their father. As a result, Joseph lost many precious years with his family because he was soon sold into slavery. Even still, Joseph prospered and became a trusted worker in his master's house. However, a false accusation was made against him, resulting in Joseph spending some time in prison. Scripture makes it clear that God was with Joseph, and eventually, he was released to help Pharaoh interpret a troubling dream.
Joseph's ability to interpret the dream eventually led to his promotion to Prime Minister of Egypt. This authority put him in a unique position when his brothers came to Egypt seeking help during a famine.

Instead of misusing his power, Joseph extended help to his brothers and forgave them. When they couldn't understand why he was returning kindness and forgiveness for the harsh and unkind treatment they had given him, Joseph explained, "You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives" (Genesis 50:20).

Like Joseph, you may be mistreated, envied, forgotten, and perhaps falsely accused. Remember that, as a child of God, the Lord is with you during both the waiting and stormy seasons.  Furthermore, you can trust that God will make a way for you to go forward.

Ephesians 4:32, "Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you."