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Your Question:
How can I forgive my family member for stealing from me?
Answer:
Forgiveness is a crucial aspect of our lives, especially when it comes to family members. As someone who pastors a local evangelical church, I've seen my fair share of conflicts and difficulties in relationships. When it comes to forgiving a family member for stealing from you, it's essential to recognize that humility is the first step towards understanding the power of grace. We often struggle to forgive because we feel superior to the person who wronged us, thinking, "I would never do something like that." However, this mindset only hinders our ability to forgive. According to the Bible, we are called to forgive others as God has forgiven us (Ephesians 4:31-32). This means that we forgive not because the other person deserves it, but because God has graciously forgiven us. As I reflect on my own family, I see patterns of behavior that have led to hurt and betrayal. But forgiveness doesn't excuse or justify those actions; rather, it allows us to release the debt and move forward. In the process of forgiveness, it's essential to acknowledge the hurt and damage caused by the other person's actions. This might involve restitution or a conversation to understand the impact of their behavior. As I've learned from my own experiences, forgiveness doesn't mean we forget or condone the hurt; it means we choose to release the anger and resentment, and instead, focus on healing and restoration. As the Bible says, "If you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you" (Matthew 6:14-15).
Sources:
meaning of marriage
timothy keller
power of a praying parent
stormie omartian
addictions a banquet in the grave
edward t welch
true sexual morality
daniel heimbach
new testament background and message
thomas lea
systematic theology
wayne grudem
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