Spiritual guidance powered by AI and grounded in Scripture
Your Question:
Can I ever forgive my family member for stealing from me?
Answer:
As I reflect on the question of forgiving a family member for stealing from me, I'm reminded of the pattern of behavior that has manifested in my own family. It's not uncommon for families to deal with this issue, but it's how we respond that matters. I've seen this pattern play out in my own family, and it's caused tension and hurt. However, I believe that forgiveness is key to healing and moving forward. The Bible teaches us that we must forgive others as God forgives us. In Matthew 6:14-15, it says, "But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses." This verse reminds me that forgiveness is not just about letting go of the hurt, but also about my relationship with God. If I don't forgive others, I'm not forgiving myself, and that's a heavy burden to carry. Forgiveness doesn't mean that the hurt or pain goes away instantly. It means that I choose to let go of the anger and resentment that's holding me back. It's not about making the guilty party pay for their actions, but about my own healing and freedom. As it says in Matthew 18:34-35, "So My heavenly Father also will do to you if each of you, from his heart, does not forgive his brother his trespasses." Forgiveness is a choice, and it's one that I must make for my own sake, not just for the sake of the person who wronged me.
Sources:
power of a praying parent
stormie omartian
meaning of marriage
timothy keller
true sexual morality
daniel heimbach
addictions a banquet in the grave
edward t welch
systematic theology
wayne grudem
raising kids to follow christ
lee ann mancini
introduction biblical ethics
robertson mcquilkin
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