Scripture and Prayer Topic: Forgiveness
Scripture: Ephesians 4:22
Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving one another, just as in Christ God forgave you. (NIV)
Prayer:
Gracious Father, may we remember when others hurt us, it comes from the basis of some underlying fear. Sometimes it can be difficult to remember int “the heat of the moment” to stop and assess what our fear is, before responding in the same manner. May we strive to come from a place of understanding we all have fears that lead us to make insensitive remarks from time to time. If they aren’t consistently and intentionally hurtful or spiteful from those we love, please help us to have the forgiving hearts God has so tenderly offered us. Help us to forgive others “seventy times seven,” yet, know it’s also okay to establish healthy boundaries to honor that as God’s children we are all worthy of not being used or abused, whether verbally, physically, emotionally, or spiritually. Amen.
Personal/Professional Growth Tool Suggestion:
In those moments of uncomfortable situations, try to switch your mindset towards figuring out the lesson you’re to learn in that moment. Then, journal or make a diary entrance about the experience and lessons learned.
Coping Skill Suggestion:
Instead of feeling irritated by anyone, picture them as a character from your childhood… perhaps from a cartoon, a funny television or movie character, etc. It will “take you to a place” that will help you smile, easing your discomfort level, “in the moment.”