The Habit Of Forgiveness
When we think of forgiveness, we usually think of the big stuff. We think of and struggle with forgiving the terrible things we've done or the awful things that have happened to us.
Those big things require a lot of strength to forgive.
Perhaps getting into the habit of forgiveness with the little things can help us with the big stuff.
Little annoyances that come at us every day, like:
The person who cut you off in traffic
The person who is driving too slow in traffic
The person who messed up your order at the restaurant
The person who is late after you stressed about being on time
The person who was rude when you finally connected with a human after being on hold for 30 minutes yelling REPRESENTATIVE to try and get through an automated system
I could go on and on.
These little annoyances add up, and if we aren't careful, our anger and frustration build throughout the day. Before we know it, we are a cranky mess.
Rather than viewing the world from the perspective of entitled judgment, too easily offended and annoyed by those around us, we could try to forgive and treat others with kindness and mercy.
You must be having a bad day. I hope you are OK. I forgive you.
You must be stressed out. I have been there. I am sending you love and strength. I forgive you.
I'm sure it's challenging to do your job. People are often rude and mean to you, which probably makes you feel like being rude back. That has to be tough. I will do my best to treat you with kindness. I forgive you.
Let's spread little bits of kindness and forgiveness all around today. Be intentional about it. Stop and look people in the eyes and see them. Be kind. Forgive them. It might make all the difference in the world for them.
It’s going to make a big difference for you as well.
Developing a habit of forgiveness with the little things might make forgiving the big things a bit easier.
Ready to spread some love and kindness today? I AM!
Proverbs 12:16
Fools show their annoyance at once, but the prudent overlook an insult.
Colossians 3: 12-14
So, chosen by God for this new life of love, dress in the wardrobe God picked out for you: compassion, kindness, humility, quiet strength, discipline. Be even-tempered, content with second place, quick to forgive an offense. Forgive as quickly and completely as the Master forgave you. And regardless of what else you put on, wear love. It's your basic, all-purpose garment. Never be without it.
Proverbs 12:18
The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.
James 1:19
Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger.