Wow this is a tough one!

I have the privilege of meeting with a group of Portuguese ladies at our local church.  Most are old enough to be my mother but I'm humbled by their acceptance and excitement everytime I schedule our women's meeting.  

This past week I presented them with a challenge.  They have two weeks to approach one person that has either hurt them or that they hurt and ask them for forgiveness.  I thought before presenting this challenge that they were going to think that I'm crazy but I was pleasantly surprised how they welcomed the challenge.

Truth is, I wanted them to free themselves from any little residue of hurt that they might have towards anyone.  Even if their hurt is justifiable it becomes a web that entangles their heart in such a manner that ultimately hinders their walk with God.  

Forgiveness isn't a favor you do for the person that has caused you an offense.  It's a freedom you give yourself.  As long as you hold on to past hurts you are still a prisoner of the person that caused the offense.  

People often say that to forgive someone of a wrong that was done is a sign of weakness.  I say that to forgive is a huge sign of strength and self control.  Like the Lord's Prayer says " forgive our trespasses as we forgive those who have trespassed against us".  If you want God to forgive your worst sin you first need to drive yourself to forgive the worst wrong that has been done against you.