Ministry Mindset

I was discussing love with a close friend recently. We both agreed love is God's highest commandment- a tall order to fill, especially when we have been wronged. But if we can manage it and forgive those who hurt us when they ask for it, we must recognize it's all God and the Holy Spirit at work. It reminds me of a tough situation I faced with my stepfather, who later asked for my forgiveness. Even though I was still young, hurt, and angry, what I have since learned is that service to God takes precedence. I was, and still am, a servant of the Lord, and as such, forgiveness was my obligation. I may not have forgiven him at the time, but it is never too late to repent for your own actions in which this case was unforgiveness. That's why faith is so powerful-- it can help us forgive others we don't want to and lead us to a more joyful life. Jesus talks about this in Luke 17:7, using the metaphor of a servant to emphasize the responsibilities that come with being a believer. No matter the role we play, mother, professional, friend, relative, or co-worker, we can approach it with faith, duty, and ministry.

When you start to doubt your ability to forgive, don't rely on your own strength. Put your faith in Jesus and ask yourself, WWJD? We are all imperfect. We forget that forgiving can be an act of service. We can so easily focus on being mistreated that we don't submit to God. But if we do, we may find peace. It can be hard to understand how we can forgive someone who hurts us again and again. When in pain, remember the other person has moved on. As hard as it is, we must forgive. The power of faith can make it easier. Even if it's just a little, faith brings peace.