“Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior.” Ephesians 4:31
A 23 year old man in Boca Raton, Florida is trying to snag a 2.5 million dollar mansion for free. He has moved into the home and has filed an “adverse possession claim.” In other words... he’s a squatter. Someone who moves in like he owns the place and won’t leave. As upset as the neighbors are at this... they can’t seem to get him out and claim that his being there will ruin the neighborhood.
Unforgiveness is a lot like that squatter. When we’ve been wronged and choose not to pardon someone, it takes up residence in our hearts and refuses to move. And it doesn’t come alone. It invites bitterness, resentment, and anger to live upstairs as well. The Bible tells us in Ephesians to get rid of all of these if we want to get past our past. The other person may not deserve it (or even ask for it)... but when we forgive, we begin to move forward and our heart can start to heal. Ready to evict what doesn’t belong? I’ll be praying for you as you take that brave first step.
