January 8
"Be kind to one another, compassionate, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you.”
(Ephesians 4:32)
Who do you need to forgive—yourself, someone else, or maybe both?
Forgiveness is one of the most challenging and essential aspects of life, especially for those of us who have struggled with addiction. The pain of the past, whether caused by others or by our own actions, can be a heavy burden to carry. Often, we hold onto resentment or guilt, thinking it will somehow protect us from being hurt again. Yet, this only keeps us chained to the very wounds we long to heal from.
Ephesians 4:32 calls us to a higher standard: kindness, compassion, and forgiveness. Why? Because God, through Christ, has forgiven us. His forgiveness is not conditional or partial; it is complete and unconditional. When we embrace this truth, we are empowered to extend the same grace to others and to ourselves.
Forgiveness doesn’t mean forgetting the pain or excusing harmful behavior. Instead, it’s a choice to release the burden of bitterness and trust God to handle what we cannot. Forgiving doesn’t change the past, but it frees us to live in peace today and hope for tomorrow.
Who in your life have you struggled to forgive? How has holding onto resentment or guilt affected your recovery? What steps can you take today to embrace the forgiveness God has shown you and extend it to others?
Gracious Father, thank You for forgiving me through Jesus Christ. Help me to show the same kindness and compassion to others that You have shown to me. Teach me to release bitterness and resentment, trusting in Your justice and love. Give me the strength to forgive myself and others as I walk in the freedom of Your grace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Redemptive Recovery
Redemptive Recovery (RR) is a Christian recovery group and program that is modeled on biblical truths. We believe that Jesus Christ has the power to transform our lives and that the bible is our roadmap. RR meets weekly and is for anyone currently navigating the challenges of addiction and also those that are further along in their recovery.
Visit www.redemptiverecovery.org for more information.