Forgiveness Sets You Free

By Kay Heitsch

Holding on to a grudge doesn't make you strong; it makes you bitter. Forgiveness doesn't make you weak; it sets you free. ~ Healing Quotes

No one has gone through life without being hurt by another person. We may think we will forgive them if they apologize. But what if they never apologize? What then?

I've gone through this in my life many times. I've had people hurt me deeply who never apologized. It's a wonder I ever became a Christian after dealing with this incident I'll share.

When I was in boarding school, a group of ministerial students from a university came to our school. They put on their program, and one of the guys seemed to take a special interest in me.

Of course, I was flattered seeing that he was older. My mom was thrilled that he was going to be a minister. He started writing to me and sent me flowers.

Not too long after, our class was invited to go to the university. This ministerial student called me up when I got there and wanted to get together.

We met, and he tried to rape me! I got away, and he yelled, "You don't live up to your reputation!" I didn't say a word in return.

I didn't tell my mom because she thought this guy was terrific, especially since he was going to be a preacher!

Here I was, a 15 or 16-year-old kid. He was in his 20s. Many so-called Christian people had some idea of who I was. I didn't fit into their mold. I was bitter for years and wanted nothing to do with religion.

But God had a plan for my life! I had to let go of the bitterness and unforgiveness I had for many years to be set free.

Our bible verse says. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you. Ephesians 4:32

Because God has forgiven us so much, we can forgive others.

Holding on to a grudge doesn't make you strong; it makes you bitter. Forgiveness doesn't make you weak; it sets you free.