Forgiving the Same Person…Yet, Again
Posted on 05. Aug, 2010 by Angie Wyatt in Blog
Loading ...Forgiveness. It’s supposed to help you move on. Yet, too often we find ourselves right back where we started. We end up trying, yet again, to forgive the people who repeatedly hurt us. How do you forgive someone who hurts you over and over again? How do you stop an endless cycle of bitterness and resentment?
Sometimes we can stop the relationship altogether. It’s never wise to stay in a dangerous situation. Still, most unforgiveness happens in those relationships we can’t change. What about your boss? Your teenage children? Your bed-ridden mother? You can hardly cut-off these relationships.
Lisa was only a teenager when she started learning to forgive her father. She was new to Spiritual Wellness, and the first God-centered person in her family. Her dad raised her to be tolerant and open-minded. In fact, he was supportive of her previous interest in tarot cards and Wicca. She thought he would be equally supportive of her newfound faith. Instead, he was furious. He relentlessly teased her. Each time, she welled up with anger. She felt stuck in a cycle of unforgiveness.
Why couldn’t she forgive once and for all? She desperately wanted to walk in a constant state of forgiveness. Lisa found lasting forgiveness when started focusing on her Spiritual Wellness. Along her journey, God showed Lisa His love for her. When she looked through God’s eyes, she saw herself as God’s daughter. She felt valued and adored.
When Lisa received God’s love, it changed her feelings for her dad. She now saw him as someone who also needed God’s love. The times when she felt bitter toward him became less frequent, then eventually vanished altogether. The more deeply she experienced God’s love, the more she maintained forgiveness.
Lasting forgiveness happens when we identify with God’s love. Only when we know God’s love for us, can we continually forgive others. 
Saint Paul prays that we would be rooted and grounded in God’s love. He says that God’s love gives us power to do way more than we dream.God’s love can even empower us to forgive those who repeatedly hurt us.
Imagine a tree with thick, strong roots. As the tree’s roots grow deep into the earth, the tree gains strength. When storms rage, the tree stands firm. The tree cannot be moved from its deep roots. It’s grounded.
Like a tree, you can be rooted and grounded in God’s love. You can remain loving toward people regardless of their words, actions or intentions. With God’s love, your forgiveness no longer hinges on good behavior. Instead, regardless of behavior, you have the power to forgive.
To experience lasting forgiveness, focus on your Spiritual Wellness. Ask God to reveal His love for you. The more you identify with God’s love, the less you will identify with your pain. Only God’s love is powerful enough to firmly plant you in lasting forgiveness.
6 Responses to “Forgiving the Same Person…Yet, Again”
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Andy Heller
05. Aug, 2010
Dear Angie,
This was a article that has a lot power in it. This one spoke to me. It’s a long story, but the short version I have 7 and continuing years of forgiving the same person over and over again. About a year ago, I was walking out of the grocery store and came across the across the street church and it’s outdoor billboard. It’s message simply read “Forgive someone today.” That was all. I froze as I read and just stood there looking at it. People probably wondered if there was something wrong with me. As I stood there, all my thoughts about this person of who I was and still am in a relationship with ran through my mind about what they did that hurt me. As I stood there, I knew what I needed to do….again and for good. And that was to forgive them. I did that. I got into my car and started to cry. I cared for this person but was hurt and angry for what they did to me. But I forgave them and I am glad I did because there came a time when that person really needed my help and I did help and still do. This write up of yours was one that brought back a lot of memories I would rather forget, but it also reinforced to me that I know I did the right thing and did what God would want. After this, I am going to see my friend and let them know I care for them and am thankful for their life and that they are of value to at least me.
Angie Wyatt
06. Aug, 2010
Andy, What a powerful story! Thanks for sharing. I’m so encouraged. Angie
Jan-Michael
06. Aug, 2010
I have learned that just like me, other people have old issues that may suddenly spring out and I may almost react as I used to…emotionally and not due to the current situation but in recalling an old bad situation.
The old adage “count to 10″ holds true as when we stop, think or turn to God and put the other person’s actions in perspective we will react more with a generous heart. And we may not only be a better listener to our friend or loved one but may learn more about ourselves and how God can speak wisdom into our spirit.
Jan-Michael
Lois Lindquist
14. Aug, 2010
This has always been one of the hardest things for me to face as a Christian. I was lied about to some of the people in my apartment building a few years back. I felt shame, regret and anger,for someting I didnt even do! Finally the Holy Spirit took hold of me and I went to this person and confronted them…..NOT in a mean way but trying to set things straight. After I did this we became fast friends and are still on speaking terms with one another. Now I have another person who is hard to love in my same buillding! I’m working hard to forgive her attitude about others here and I ask God daily to give me His Love and His forgiveness. Its a tough battle but I think I’m getting there! LOL I loved your article as it has helped me to rethink my attitude and to reaalize God made this oerson too! They were created by him and why should I hold a grudge against someone whom is made by our Creator? I think I’ll go and say hello to this person when I see them next and see where it leads!
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