Two Paths

Another devotional ... which had to be edited somewhat for the publication!

Two Paths
Ephesians 4:30-32

Death of a friendship begins with a hasty response, a cutting word, an accusation, anger boiling up, imagined hurts, imagined slights.  Then a slow awakening -- a decision must be made.  The wounded spirit has a choice to make -- forgive or not to forgive?  Practice unconditional love or nurture the wounded spirit?

Walk willingly away from that one person who was your best friend, your confidant, yet in their humanness made a mistake that caused you hurt and walk willingly down a new path?  The path of forgiveness given, although not requested, with no regrets, peace resting securely in His example.  Or a path fraught with the quicksilver of the unforgiving spirit?  A place where bitterness and anger slosh in and out of the heart day after day, flooding your emotions at the most unexpected moments, niggling whispers of the turmoil hidden in your soul.  Which path to follow --- forgiveness or bitterness?

Wise, godly counsel for all believers who are struggling with making this decision is found in our Scripture reference.  How can one NOT forgive the hurts and anguish someone has inflicted?  Did not the one and only Son of God endure the torture, agony and humiliation of the cross for each and everyone, more specifically, YOU?  He bore the wrath of His righteous, sinless Father...through which everyone can receive the gift of salvation.  We are forgiven and made righteous in His eyes!  How then, can we do any less than to forgive those who hurt or offend us?  Stop for a moment and consider the importance of this hurt weighed along side the supreme sacrifice offered on the cross at Golgotha.  Determine to allow the Savior's abundant, passionate love to fill your heart and overflow as you choose the path of forgiveness.