Biblical Answer

The Pain of Family Estrangement and the Power of Forgiveness

Forgiving family members who have abandoned or hurt us is one of the most challenging tasks we can face. The pain of family estrangement can be overwhelming, and it's natural to feel like we can't just "get over it." However, the Bible teaches us that forgiveness is not only a choice we make, but also a vital part of living a life that reflects God's love and character. When we choose to forgive, we don't forget what happened or excuse the hurtful behavior, but we release the negative emotions associated with it and choose to love and care for the person who hurt us.

Practicing Forgiveness in the Midst of Pain

Practicing forgiveness doesn't mean that we have to invite the person who hurt us back into our lives or pretend that everything is okay when it's not. Forgiveness is a process that involves choosing to release the hurt and anger, and it may take time to work through. As we pray for the person who hurt us, we can begin to see them in a different light and understand that they are also human beings who have made mistakes. We can also choose to forgive ourselves for any perceived wrongs or shortcomings that may have contributed to the estrangement. This doesn't mean that we have to accept or condone the hurtful behavior, but rather that we choose to release the negative emotions associated with it.

Breaking Free from the Cycle of Unforgiveness

When we hold onto unforgiveness, it can create a cycle of hurt and anger that can be passed down from generation to generation. By choosing to forgive, we can break free from this cycle and create a new path forward. As we forgive, we can also choose to love and care for the person who hurt us, even if they are no longer in our lives. This doesn't mean that we have to be in a relationship with them or that we have to pretend that everything is okay when it's not. Rather, it means that we choose to release the negative emotions associated with the hurt and choose to love and care for them as human beings. By doing so, we can experience healing, freedom, and a deeper sense of connection with God and with others.