Rather than forgive, we can wish ill; rather than hope for repentance, we can instead hope that our enemies experience the wrath of God.
Sentiment: NEGATIVE
When people realize that they have been forgiven of everything, it becomes a little bit easier for them to forgive others.
Without forgiveness life is governed by... an endless cycle of resentment and retaliation.
When we forgive evil we do not excuse it, we do not tolerate it, we do not smother it. We look the evil full in the face, call it what it is, let its horror shock and stun and enrage us, and only then do we forgive it.
Regret is not a proactive feeling. It is situated in disappointment, sorrow, even remorse. It merely wishes things were different without an act to cause a difference. However, repentance is different. Repentance is an admission of, hatred of, and turning away from sin before God.
Each life is unique. But for all, repentance will surely include passing through the portal of humble prayer. Our Father in Heaven can allow us to feel fully the conviction of our sins. He knows the depths of our remorse. He can then direct what we must do to qualify for forgiveness.
You will know that forgiveness has begun when you recall those who hurt you and feel the power to wish them well.
We cannot embrace God's forgiveness if we are so busy clinging to past wounds and nursing old grudges.
God's forgiveness allows us to be honest with ourselves. We recognize our imperfections, admit our failures, and plead to God for clemency.
If we can find forgiveness in our hearts for those who have caused us hurt and injury, we will rise to a higher level of self-esteem and well-being.
The ineffable joy of forgiving and being forgiven forms an ecstasy that might well arouse the envy of the gods.