1 John 2:10-11 NKJV – ‘He who loves his brother abides in the light, and there is no cause for stumbling in him. But he who hates his brother is in darkness and does not know where he is going, because the darkness has blinded his eyes.’
Hebrews 12:14-15 NKJV- ‘Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord: looking carefully lest anyone fall short of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up cause trouble, and by this many become defiled;’
We all know the feeling of being hurt. Our first instinct may be to confront that person in anger or stop associating with them altogether. However, to do these things would be quite the opposite of what God tells us to do in Hebrews 12:14-15.
The Lord desires us to pursue peace with all people, but how can we pursue peace with those who have hurt us? One way to go about it is through prayer.
When we take these issues to the Lord in prayer, He helps us to heal from the pain and also searches our hearts to reveal anything that may have caused the pain in the first place.
This is incredibly necessary because sometimes, our insecurities or pride can cause us to be offended when we have no reason to be. If you have this sort of revelation, repent and ask the Lord to forgive you and create a pure heart in you that is free of insecurity and pride.
During this time of prayer, the Lord can also provide practical instruction on how to address the other person if necessary. Take heed to whatever God says to you in this time and do not be afraid to discuss the issue with the involved party if that’s what God instructs you to do. Instead, ask the Lord to soften their heart that they may receive what you say. If they don’t receive it immediately, continue to love and pray for them.
It may be difficult but remember that Jesus Christ our Example was able to forgive the people who crucified Him while experiencing great pain and facing imminent death. Luke 23:33-34 (NLT) – When they came to a place called The Skull, they nailed him to the cross. And the criminals were also crucified—one on his right and one on his left. Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they don’t know what they are doing.” And the soldiers gambled for his clothes by throwing dice.
The same Holy Spirit that empowered Him lives in us and is available to help us forgive anyone who hurts us.
PRAYER: Lord Jesus, help me to walk in love in all of my interactions with others even when I am hurt. Help me to forgive and be gracious to others just as you have been to me. Lord, help me not be blinded by insecurity or pride but instead have a heart of love for ALL people. In Jesus’ name, amen.