What my 4 Year Old Taught Me About Forgiveness (a repost)

I first shared this post on September 27, 2011.  Much has happened since then.  My little man will turn 6 years old in a few days.  God's still using him and his little brother to teach me lessons...and I've taught them, by God's grace, quite a few too.  So thankful for the way we continue to grow.

 

I've heard it said that unforgiveness in our hearts is liking drinking poison and expecting it to kill the other person.  To live a happy, Spiritually healthy life we must choose to forgive...and not just when we're asked.  It takes practice and a willing heart, much like any other discipline in this life. 

 

I re-read this a few weeks ago.  My own words ministered to me.  Love how God does that!  So I thought I'd share again, in case you someone else needed to read it too.  :)  Please read more...

Another Lesson from my 4 year old...Forgiveness

Oh, the things I learn from my children!

A few days ago I raised my voice at my 4 year old. Yes, I know, I shouldn't do this. And, yes, I know how important my words are...and that it's not Christ like to yell...and that I wasn't setting a good example for my children. Yes, I know. I am ashamed of it. But, the truth is, I did what I know I shouldn't.

I'm sure you didn't assume I was perfect. Of course, this all out proves that I am not. As much as I love my boys and as much as I want to be the perfect mom, I still blow it more often than I'd like to. Thankful for God's grace...and for continued growth.

After I raised my voice, I felt terrible. I asked the Lord to forgive me. Then, I went with a repentant heart to ask my little Andrew for his forgiveness. I said, "Andrew, I'm sorry for raising my voice at you. That was't right. Will you please forgive me?" He said, "Yes, I forgive you, Mommy. It's okay." I said, "No, it's not okay, I shouldn't have raised my voice at you." He looked surprised as he replied, "It's okay, Mommy. I forgive you." I told him thank you and out of my own shame said I was sorry again. He said, "I forgive you, Mommy. It's okay. I already forgave you before you even asked."

Did you catch that? He already forgave me before I even asked!

Wow! Tears flooded my eyes...unmerited, undeserved forgiveness before I asked...just because he loves me! What a relief! What joy flooded my heart!

I need to take a lesson from my 4 year old!! Do you also?

Instead of taking offense, holding a grudge, and critically looking at another's faults; how much better to overlook and forgive...without being asked...not because it's merited or deserved...just because of LOVE!

Make allowance for each other's faults, and forgive anyone who offends you.

Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. 

Colossians 3:13

 

"Anyone who overlooks an offense promotes love..."

Proverbs 17:9a

 

Read other posts about Forgiveness here.