Spiritual guidance powered by AI and grounded in Scripture
Your Question:
how can i forgive myself for not being able to protect my parents and still love them?
Answer:
Forgiving yourself for not being able to protect your parents can be a challenging task. As a pastor, I've seen many people struggle with feelings of guilt and shame when they feel they've failed to protect loved ones. However, it's essential to recognize that we can't control everything, and sometimes, despite our best efforts, harm can still occur. This doesn't mean we're not responsible for our actions, but it does mean we need to be gentle with ourselves and acknowledge that we're human. It's also helpful to consider the pattern of behavior in your family. Just as you mentioned, seeing this trait manifest in other family members can help you understand that it's not just about you. This can be a liberating realization, as it takes the focus off your own perceived shortcomings and places it on the larger family dynamic. By acknowledging this pattern, you can begin to see that you're not alone in your struggles and that it's possible to break free from this cycle of unforgiveness. As you work through your forgiveness, remember that it's a choice you make, not a feeling you have. Praying for the person you need to forgive, including yourself, can be a powerful step in the healing process. It's not about erasing the past or excusing the harm that was done, but about releasing the hold it has on you and choosing to move forward in love and forgiveness. Just as God forgives us and chooses to love us despite our flaws, we can extend that same love and forgiveness to ourselves and others.
Sources:
power of a praying parent
stormie omartian
addictions a banquet in the grave
edward t welch
systematic theology
wayne grudem
raising passionate jesus followers
phil diane comer
raising kids to follow christ
lee ann mancini
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