Forgiveness

Part of my breakthrough that I was seeking God for in my life, forgiveness was the key to unlocking it. The only thing is I had no idea. We are always taught from a young age that God

forgives us of our sins when we ask Jesus into our hearts. That is true, I just didn't realize there was more.

If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9 NASB

God also says that we must forgive others of their transgressions against us and then He will forgive us of our transgressions.

For if you forgive others for their transgressions, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. Matthew 6:14 NASB.

God knows that unforgiveness creates bitterness, and then bitterness turns into a poison that will open a door for the devil to captivate your thoughts. This is why God tells us we must first

forgive other, it is really for you. It is freedom from a trap that the enemy has for you.

One thing that I have carried all of these years and didn't realize was, that I never forgave myself. I carried it around my neck like a chain. As soon as I started to feel some freedom, the

devil would send someone from my past life to remind me of “all the fun we would have” and boom there it was again. I would dwell on it for days, all of the hurt I had caused my family and what a poor example I had been to the people around me. I carried guilt, and I carried the thought of what if my actions might have sent someone down a road that they never should have gone. I had asked God to forgive me and he did just that, but I had never forgiven myself.

True freedom for me was when I did forgive myself and gave my baggage to Jesus. Inner healing was all that I have needed. I know that God knew all that I was going to do. He knew I was going to be a prodigal son. I would turn and run from the call on my life, but He called me anyway.

My Prayer

Thank you God that you gave your Son Jesus Christ to be born and live a sinless life and to die on a cross for my sins and transgressions. That you loved me and pursued me even when I was running from you. Letting me to see the wickedness of sin, only to give me your finest coat when I was broken and needing a loving God. Knowing that you are a righteous God but willing to forgive once I asked for Jesus to come into my heart. Thank you for your grace and mercy. Amen

Benaiah Snider