If I were not already a believer, I would give my life to Christ if for none other than to experience the freedom from my burden of sin. And why do people shy away from such a wonderful privilege—because they are too blinded by themselves and others. Also, do not believe for one moment there is another way in which to experience this release. There is no human-mediator who can go to God on your behalf to relieve you of your sinful stronghold. A person may pray to God that you be broken for your sin, but Jesus has the only authority to forgive the sinner of his sins (Luke 5:21)!
At this point, I must also give another important reminder—do not expect to receive that “dance around the room” rush of freedom until you have taken care of another matter of business. It is the only stipulation of receiving true forgiveness from God;
“You can’t get forgiveness from God, without also forgiving others. If you refuse to do your part, you cut yourself off from God’s part (Matthew 6:14-15 (MSG).”
Who hurt you? Who betrayed you? Who did the unthinkable to you or someone close to you? You must find the forgiveness to extend to that person. Forgiveness is not always a feeling, but it is a commandment. And if you desire to be authentically released from your sin, you must first authentically release the one who hurt you from theirs.
Forgiving others is no easy task, but forgiving yourself is even more grueling. When you reshape the question into “who have YOU hurt,” the task becomes all the more daunting due to that filthy pride of ours creeping up and giving us our list of justifications.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON KASEY VAN NORMAN MINISTRIES, VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT http://kaseyvannorman.com
Tagged: faith, forgiveness, grace, kasey van norman
Comments