I have thought about forgiveness and what it means to
forgive. Our Lord said,
“After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen. For, if ye forgive men their trespasses your heavenly Father will also forgive you; But if ye forgive not men their trespasses neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.”
I believe forgiveness is more for the offended than the offender. When I choose to harbor ill will, resentment, and retaliation; it poisons my heart. Instead of enjoying the peace and beauty that surround me every day, my time is spent focusing on others distressing actions. I really do believe everyone is doing the best they can at any one moment. It might look kind of crazy and even criminal, but if I were in their shoes, with their intelligence, and life experience, I might be doing some of the very same things.
We are each in the process of learning and growing. I believe we will have many experiences over the eternities until we reach maturity and are like Jesus. Trust is gained over a long period of time as we gain knowledge and wisely implement that knowledge. We are gaining experience. I don't know why some learn faster than others, but it looks like everyone is learning one way or the other.
Currently I am in a place that I believe it is healthy to forgive everyone no matter what. I also believe that it is not healthy to trust everyone. Forgiveness is freely given; trust is earned. As I watch, observe, and interact with myself and others, I learn where I can trust myself, my loved ones, and those who are new in my life.
To be trusted by the Lord is one of the greatest compliments one could receive, “And again, verily I say unto you, my servant George Miller is without guile; he may be trusted because of the integrity of his heart; and for the love which he has to my testimony I, the Lord, love him.”
I believe there is always an open door with God to grow and become someone He can trust. I believe it wise to keep that same door open for others. Trust is not something that can be forced or rushed. It takes a consistent effort over a long period of time to know I can trust myself. As it is with myself, so it is with others.
As your friend I forgive you and give you the opportunity to gain trust.
