Rejecting Bitterness
Well, friends, I hope you’ve enjoyed something a little different these past two weeks — learning about missionaries who did such incredible work in the name of Christ, sharing the good news with those who needed to hear it most.
I want to end with some thoughts on forgiveness. Early in their journey, Stephen met a man named Timothy, who had been in prison for shooting an American and his daughter. While in prison, that family had come to talk to him and offered forgiveness. It had such an impact on him that he now wanted to find ways to help others in prison. The ex-prisoner said: “I can’t get over the fact that the man I shot was willing to forgive me. His offer of forgiveness has changed my life. Now I just want to help other people.” Amazing, amazing stuff.
Forgiveness Amid Tragedy
When Stephen was later killed, authorities repeatedly assured the family that they would find those responsible. It was a culture of revenge. But Emily said she had to learn to forgive them.
She tells a story of one of her daughters, who was throwing a tantrum. Emily sat with her and asked, “What’s wrong?” The little girl said: “Mommy, I’ve been praying and asking God for permission to hate the men who killed Daddy.” Emily was blown away. On her own, her daughter had already processed that she should forgive, and at least wanted God’s guidance before opening the door to bitterness.
Emily had to learn to forgive these men, even though they had done such a horrible thing — and she did. In fact, she continued going back to that same country even after the tragedy because her heart was still set on reaching that community with the love of Christ.
Letting Go of Bitterness
So, friends, how about it? Do you have someone you need to forgive? Please, don’t hang on to bitterness. Learn from Emily Foreman, who, though grieving, offered forgiveness to those who had done the most harm. In the end, she realised that even in tragedy, God could be glorified, and she gave up any notion of revenge or resentment. Instead, she threw herself into the arms of God and continued the work He had called her to do.
I pray that you and I will do the same with our bitterness — reject it, surrender to God’s strength, and continue the work He’s calling us to do.
Can I encourage you to buy this book, We Died Before We Came Here, and enjoy it? I’m sure you’ll be blessed by it as I was. God bless you, friends. Take care, and have a fantastic weekend.
An extra devotion to thank you for your support! Let me share a story that reminds me of Peter’s staying away from Jesus in fear of condemnation. I hope it will inspire you to go back to Jesus, if you need to, today.