What is a friend?

[Nicodema]

Human beings typically cheat on forgiveness that way. It's not real forgiveness unless the circle is open to you again. We have all kinds of fancy talk about supposedly forgiving but not trusting someone or not letting them in again, but it is all rubbish, we just use that as self-justifying excuses for not truly forgiving.

That is my opinion. And no, I don't want to hear tiresome arguments about murderers and child molesters, I'm talking about regular everyday life things.

[cricket]

I absolutely share this opinion. Wanted someone else to say it first though.

It is as I thought. Forgiveness is not forgiveness until that circle is reopened.

[LifeHiscost]

Quote:

---

I absolutely share this opinion. Wanted someone else to say it first though.

It is as I thought. Forgiveness is

not

forgiveness until that circle is reopened.

---

Two thoughts.

[:"red"] "If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men. [/] Romans 12:18 NASB

[:"red"] "But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible." [/] Matthew 19:26 KJV

Well, perhaps three.

[:"red"] ".....whatever a man sows, this he will also reap." [/] Galatians 6:7 NASB

Sow forgiveness. Claim the promise.

[Nicodema]

Chrys, I don't know what to tell you about that. Maybe all you can do (for your OWN heart's sake, to have peace) is to forgive them for their inability to completely forgive you, and let it go. I know, I know, way easier said than done since we are messy creatures full of feelings that don't necessarily conform to what we are trying to accomplish! And it sounds so unfair, making you do all the hard work. But I can't think of any other way that might help such a sticky situation.

[cricket]

Wow. I didn't think about that. I didn't think I was harboring any ill feelings about them at all. I guess, in a way, I am.

Just to begin the thoughts flowing... I forgive them for the inability to include me once again in their circle of life. That just doesn't sound right...

Trying this one... I seek forgiveness from the Lord for harboring ill feelings toward these people. I pray for wisdom and understanding to love them as He would have me love them. Yes, this feels much better.

[Nicodema]

No, I didn't mean to imply you were harboring any ill feelings. I just meant that by not forgiving you completely, they were injuring your spirit and heart, and since you can't control what they do, perhaps a way out would be to forgive them for that.

Anyway, what do I know. I didn't mean to cause any offense. You see, I can't even be helpful. I try, but it always goes wrong.

[cricket]

Nico, Dear, no offense taken. Your post gives me new perspective. You have been very helpful, indeed.

[cricket]

**bump**

[cricket]

**bump2**