September 27 is National Day of Forgiveness to encourage us to develop realistic methods for incorporating forgiveness in our lives. Forgiveness is a potent tool on a journey of spiritual, mental, emotional, and physical health.
The act of forgiveness is powerful. But, granting forgiveness is more than an act - it's a process. Forgiveness teaches us about ourselves as much as it teaches us about others. Whether a person suffers from mental or emotional pain, grief, or trauma, forgiveness can set us on a path of healing. Forgiveness can also develop into a practice that teaches us to value compassion, kindness, and love.
Forgiveness sets us free and allows us to begin the process of healing. When we truly forgive, it is easy(ier) to forget because what once plagued us is no longer wired the same in our neural network. We can remember if needed, but after forgiveness, the memory fades into the far distance only to be retrieved if needed for ‘relatability’ (or a story). Even then, there is no “charge” associated with the memory anymore.
Forgiveness Benefits
While granting forgiveness may be challenging, it comes with a wealth of benefits. During the process, we may discover the person we need to forgive most is ourselves. Self-forgiveness is another healthy tool to learn. Thus, National Day of Forgiveness also offers an opportunity to understand the benefits of forgiveness.
• Forgiveness relieves stress. The stress we feel from anger, resentment, and bitterness lessens and even fades entirely. The burden of these feelings creates anxiety and stress that we no longer have to carry when we forgive.
• The act of forgiveness helps us to close a wound. When we forgive, we give ourselves permission to heal. There is freedom in healing.
• When we forgive, we also give ourselves permission to stop living in the past. We focus less on the damaging feelings and begin to look forward to the future. When we detach from the heaviness, anger, pain, and resentment, we no longer allow the past to control us. •. Forgiveness also benefits our physical health. Reduced anxiety and stress mean lower blood pressure, a stronger heart, and an improved immune system. It may also help reduce physical pain.
Reflecting on our ability to forgive ourselves leads to an ability to cope with difficult and traumatic situations. As a result, we reap the benefits of mental and emotional wellbeing.
"For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you."
It's important to remember that forgiveness scriptures like Matthew 6:14 remind us that, since God forgives us, we, too, must offer forgiveness to those who have wronged us
Ephesians 4:32 says, “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.”
What is God's message on forgiveness?
What does the Bible say about forgiving others? Ephesians 4:31-32: “Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, with all malice, and be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.” TO FORGIVE IS TO BE BRAVE .... OR
TO BE BRAVE IS TO FORGIVE...
Either way, what a day to be both!!! And today, September 27, 2024, coincidentally happens to encompass both - #NationalDayofForgiveness AND #NationalBraveDay.
NATIONAL BRAVE DAY
On the fourth Friday in September, National BRAVE Day honors women who lift each other up, rescue each other and make each other BRAVE.
Sometimes just a flutter of encouragement comes in the form of timely guidance from another woman. Other times, groups of women provide the energy coordinated, thoughtful efforts for someone in need. Women empowering women.
Despite varied experiences and backgrounds, women come together across generations to support each other. These small tokens come in many forms. For example, a momentary reprieve over a cup of coffee during a hectic day makes all the difference. A well-written letter of recommendation for a job may change the course of a life. These small tokens strengthen a woman who may have undergone unspoken tragedy or struggles. The opportunities to empower sisters, friends, family, even a stranger are limitless. National BRAVE Day, seeks out tangible ways to encourage women to keep moving forward and to be BRAVE.
For Christians, being courageous or having the strength to persevere is closely connected to believing in God's assurances – assurances of God's presence, safeguarding, and might. Patience must be accompanied by the virtues of courage and strength. True patience can only be achieved by those who possess courage. Being courageous simply means not giving in to fear.
Deuteronomy 31:6 ~
Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you.”
Psalm 31:24 ~
Be strong, and let your heart take courage, all you who wait for the Lord!
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