Last night I was rummaging around in the cupboard looking for the Double Stuf Oreos. When I couldn’t find them I said, “Shannon, where are the Oreo cookies. She said, “I didn’t buy any but I did get you some rice cakes and Nutella.”
I am not making this up.
First, I don’t like rice cakes. No one likes rice cakes. God doesn’t even like rice cakes.
Nowhere in the Bible will you find the phrase, “Kill the fatted rice cake.”
Second, I don’t even know what Nutella is, but I am pretty sure I am not supposed to put anything named Nutella in my mouth.
Needless to say, Shannon’s callous actions hurt me deeply. And even though this has strained our marriage, I know I have to forgive her because it is the only way.
Have you ever been hurt by someone? What I know after decades of serving as a pastor is that many people are carrying deep scars from the horrible things that have happened to them. And if you are one of those people, please know the way to healing begins by letting go of the hurt and anger, and forgive.
Whatever it is, you must forgive. It is not an option for those who follow Jesus Christ.
After Jesus taught the disciples the Lord’s Prayer, he said, “For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you; but if you do not forgive others, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” (Matthew 6:14-15)
Another reason to forgive come from the wise words that Kathy taught me: “Wrath destroys the vessel in which it is stored and not the one on which it is poured.”
Even though it is hard to forgive, your life will be infinitely better if you do. I promise.
Prayer: Dear Gracious Heavenly God, please help me to forgive the little and big injuries of my life. Also, remove my pride and ego so that I can humbly ask forgiveness from those whom I have hurt. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
Emotionally, I am not at a place where I can forgive Shannon for the rice cakes and Nutella debacle, but I will get there. I have to because God said so.
I pray your day is filled with joy and laughter.
Tom Robbins
Daily Devotionals by Dr. Tom Robbins 