Forgiving Myself

I’ve asked God for forgiveness for several “big” sins throughout my life. Afterward, I felt His grace upon me, yet continued to beat myself up over the sin. I couldn’t forgive myself for the thing that God forgave me for. I had trouble letting go of the shame.

This is problematic on several levels:

• It says that we’re somehow greater than God; like we are the higher court above His decision to pardon us.
• We’re clinging to something that God has graciously offered to take from us. It’s like saying, “No thanks. I want to hold onto this and let it overshadow Your grace and peace.”
• Holding onto that burden is allowing Satan to rule our lives and distract us from the glory of God.
• Why did Jesus die for our sins if we’re just going to wallow in them anyway?
• I’ve been told, it’s not biblical to forgive ourselves.

These are all just observations learned through my “need” to work through past shame. They’re statements told to me by more educated people than I. They’ve helped me let go of my past and give it up to God, which is so very freeing. God is good. He loves His children and wants to have a deeper relationship with each of us. Engage in conversation with Him. Work through your shame with His guidance. You’re not alone. He will strengthen you.

Bible Verse of the Day

I sought the Lord, and he answered me
and delivered me from all my fears.
Those who look to him are radiant,
and their faces shall never be ashamed.
Psalm 34:4-5 ESV

Prayer

Father, it’s not our intention to take away from what You do for us. We are thankful and in awe of Your grace and mercy. We are thankful and in awe of the price that Jesus paid for us on the cross. Help us and others we know who struggle with the idea that we have to somehow forgive ourselves of our past. Help us instead to give it all up to You, and to strive to do better each day that we’re here. Encourage us, if it is Your will, to share our past as testimonials that will show unbelievers Your love and mercy. Use us, Father, to show others the peace that only comes to those who know You, who have repented and have asked Jesus to be our Lord and Saviour.
Father, we pray without ceasing for the people of Ukraine. Even amid peace talks, Russia continues to attack. Even though they said they would pull back, they continue to actively destroy Ukraine. Father, please save the people. Please bring peace to Ukraine. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.