‘No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.’ Philippians 3:13-14(NLT)
‘Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.’ Ephesians 4:31-32(NLT)
‘“If you forgive those who sin against you, your heavenly Father will forgive you. But if you refuse to forgive others, your Father will not forgive your sins.’ Matthew 6:14-15(NLT)
Devotional Content:
Your past relationships affect you. Often we let past relationships bleed over into new relationships. This can cause a lot of problems in dating and in marriage.
If you are still holding onto hurts of past relationships, it’s time to start letting go of those hurts so that you can move forward. That means it may be time to forgive.
Until you forgive, you are still tied to that other person and you are still giving them power in your life. Forgiveness is a decision. You have to choose to forgive. Forgiveness is also a process. Stay focused and committed to the process and you will get there.
If you are going to build a new, healthy relationship and marriage, you have to finish up the unfinished business of old relationships.
Today’s Challenge:
Dr. Kim shares that if you are going to build a new healthy relationship and a future marriage, you have to finish the unfinished business of old relationships. Is there any unfinished business in your old relationships?
Going Deeper:
If you need to forgive someone, pray and ask God to help you forgive them. It’s not easy, and it’s a process, but working toward healing is a step in the right direction.
from Getting Yourself Ready for Marriage 1: The Tough Questions by Dr. Kim Kimberling