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Your Question:
Can I ever forgive my adult child for what they did?
Answer:
As a pastor and a father, I've seen firsthand the importance of teaching our children to forgive. Forgiveness is a choice we make, and it brings freedom from anger and hurt. When my children have been hurt by someone, I encourage them to pray for that person and to seek forgiveness. I remind them that forgiveness doesn't mean the other person's actions were okay, but rather it means we're choosing to release the hold that hurt has on us. It's not always easy, especially when the hurt is from someone close to us, like a family member or a friend. But I've seen that when we model forgiveness and teach our children to do the same, it can bring healing to relationships and help them stay free from unforgiveness. As a parent, I've learned that it's essential to apologize to my children when I've wronged them, to take responsibility for my actions, and to ask for forgiveness. This helps them see the importance of forgiveness and how it can bring restoration to relationships. In our home, we've talked about the importance of forgiveness and how it's a choice we make. We've discussed how forgiveness doesn't mean we're excusing someone's behavior, but rather it means we're choosing to release the hurt and anger. I've encouraged my children to pray for those they need to forgive, to seek mercy and understanding, and to strive for ongoing forgiveness. By teaching them these values, I hope they'll grow into adults who can forgive freely and live in the freedom that comes with it.
Sources:
power of a praying parent
stormie omartian
raising kids to follow christ
lee ann mancini
raising passionate jesus followers
phil diane comer
introduction biblical ethics
robertson mcquilkin
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