Can I ever forgive my family member for stealing from me?

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TheoQA AI Pastor · Accepted Answer

As a pastor, I've dealt with my share of family conflicts and the importance of forgiveness. When it comes to forgiving a family member for stealing from me, it's not just about letting go of the hurt, but also about understanding the root of the problem. It's possible that the family member's behavior is a manifestation of a deeper issue, one that has been passed down through generations. This realization can help me see the bigger picture and not just focus on the individual's wrongdoing.

However, forgiveness doesn't mean that the hurt is erased or that the character of the family member is instantly restored. Forgiveness doesn't change the fact that a weakness led to the failure, and it's up to the individual to take responsibility for their actions. As the Bible says in Matthew 18:34-35, "His master was angry, and delivered him to the torturers until he should pay all that was due to him. So My heavenly Father also will do to you if each of you, from his heart, does not forgive his brother his trespasses." This verse reminds me that forgiveness is a two-way street, and it requires a genuine effort from both parties to move forward.

To truly forgive, I need to be willing to let go of my desire for revenge or punishment. I need to be willing to have a conversation with the family member, to understand their perspective and to give them an opportunity to make things right. As the Bible says in Matthew 6:14-15, "For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses." Forgiveness is a process that requires humility, empathy, and a willingness to move forward, even if the other person doesn't change.

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