(“Thoughts I Want To Leave Behind” is a collection of thoughts and impressions I want to leave behind as I begin to make my final pastoral transition.)

#10 Be The First To Forgive

As you walk forward in life you will collide with people. When this happens, and you get wounded, be the first to forgive. The reason forgiveness needs to be granted early is because the longer the gap is between the offense and the resolution the greater the chance the enemy has to get a foothold in your heart.

Being the first to forgive means you are large enough in spirit to lay down your rights, your demand to have been treated fairly, and the unmet expectations of what you think should have happened. These three issues belong on the Cross, in a place of permanent death, because waiting for others to uphold your rights, treat you fairly and meet your expectations is an impossible requirement to put on another person.

Act now and experience the freedom of being the first to forgive. Your act of forgiveness will help you cross the threshold of a doorway that leads to your destiny.