Forgiveness as a Gift

 


Testimony: A Story of Forgiveness

By Susan Aminia Chajes is a missionary.

A Journey of Forgiveness


When I was younger, I believed forgiveness was simple—just a matter of saying “sorry.” As I matured, I realized that forgiveness is far more complex—a journey best walked with Christ. Learning this was not easy.


A Painful Experience


I once had a friend who was like family. However, she spread a false rumor about me, shattering our bond and my reputation. Losing my closest friend was devastating and left me in immense pain.


A Prison of Pain


For three years, I clung to the hope of an apology that never came. Instead, I found myself trapped in bitterness, unable to move past the hurt. Yet, each time I prayed the Lord’s Prayer, the words “forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us” convicted me. I began asking God to help me forgive because I couldn’t do it on my own.


The Gift of Forgiveness


One day, I reached out to my former friend in an attempt to reconcile. Although I didn’t receive the apology I had hoped for, something unexpected happened—God lifted the burden from my heart.

Despite my disappointment, the anger began to fade. I felt stronger and more in control of my emotions. While I didn’t walk away with what I wanted, I walked away with what I needed—peace and the first step toward healing.

Years later, my friend finally apologized, but the real transformation had already occurred. God had replaced my desire for an apology with the strength to choose joy and release my expectations.


A Lesson in Unconditional Love


During this time, I was preparing for my wedding—a season meant to be joyful but clouded by betrayal. The rumors continued, and anger consumed me. I often felt paralyzed with frustration when I saw my friend, and I realized forgiveness was impossible on my own.

Through prayer, God gave me the grace to let go of my bitterness. Slowly, the weight of anger began to lift, and I experienced freedom.


Forgiveness as a Gift


Forgiveness is not just a gift we offer others; it’s a gift God gives to us. It heals the giver, bringing peace and joy even amid challenges. By choosing forgiveness, I found the strength to move forward and rediscover joy.

Today, I practice forgiveness regularly, relying on God’s grace to guide me. It has become a source of healing, resilience, and spiritual growth.





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