Wrestling with Self Forgiveness (Part 5)
Negative thoughts can be a big struggle as we try to forgive ourselves. Recurring negative thoughts may be symptoms of unresolved issues. In the previous article we noted that identifying when these negative thoughts begin can help us stop them, but it can also help us determine what is triggering them to get at the root cause. We can address these causes with God’s word. Is the problem injustice? God will provide eternal justice to all (2 Corinthians 5:10). The problem is a lack of faith in Him. Is the problem self-justification? A desire to have been right? We must remember that God is the one who justifies (Romans 8:33). We must put our faith in His power to make us right. Are we trying to avoid the same problem again? If we have learned, remember the lesson, but throw away all the negative thoughts accompanying it (Philippians 3:13-14). Are we in denial of reality? Acceptance can be a long and difficult process, but admitting the truth will go a long way to helping us forgive ourselves (John 8:32). Maybe the truth is difficult to discover. Talking to someone about our past may help us discover some things that will disabuse us of wrong beliefs.
Sometimes, our thoughts are just sinful. Do we desire revenge? Do we harbor hatred? Are we envious? These attitudes are wrong, and we must replace them with good attitudes. Instead of revenge, trust in God (Romans 12:19). Instead of hatred, pray for your enemy (Matthew 5:44). Instead of envy, rejoice with those who rejoice (Romans 12:15). Whatever the negative thoughts are, we must address them with God’s truth. Jesus said, “The truth will make you free” (John 8:32). We need freedom from our negative thoughts to achieve self forgiveness.
God bless you, and I love you.
Kevin Cauley