I was tasked with briefly sharing on the journey of forgiveness.

According to the American Psychological Association, forgiveness is the willful act of putting aside feelings of resentment toward an individual who has committed a wrong, been unfair or hurtful, or otherwise caused harm.

Have you ever felt that people should always operate in love and kindness because that is how you treat them? Have you ever let your guard down and given space to people who did not deserve it?

Well, today's message is about forgiving yourself.

Often, after being hurt or disappointed, we begin by blaming ourselves. We ask questions like, "Was I not wise enough to see the warning signs?" or "Should I have known that my boundaries would be crossed?"

This reminds me of the story of Joseph. When Potiphar's wife tried to persuade him to sleep with her, Joseph fled from temptation. Because, she was rejected, she falsely accused him, and he was thrown into prison. Imagine if Jospeh had sat in prison blaming himself for not telling Potiphar that his wife desired him. Even saying it aloud sounds absurd. In most marriages, a husband naturally trusts his wife, the person he has vowed to love and cherish "until death do us part." Joseph had no reason to believe that speaking up beforehand would have changed the outcome. Yet, in God's perfect timing, the Lord showed Joseph mercy and favor.

What I have come to acknowledge  is that life is filled with lessons. We learn, we grow, and we become wiser through our experiences. The same compassion and grace we so readily extend to others during their difficult moments are the very same gifts we should offer ourselves.

Forgiving yourself does not mean ignoring what happened. It means releasing yourself from the burden of guilt, accepting the lesson, and trusting that God can use every experience for your growth and His purpose.

Be kind to yourself. Give yourself grace. Heal, learn, and move forward, knowing that every lesson prepares you for the person God is calling you to become.