“It is well with my soul,” I told my husband last night.
He commented back that’s because my life is going well right now. Not so, I argued. I felt misunderstood and so did he. I’ve had life going well and I’ve not been well. Actually, my soul hasn’t been well most of my life. No one knew it. I made sure I looked good. Spit polished and shiny. And yet I desperately wanted a good, peaceful life.
What was wrong with me? I thought over and over. Why can’t I enjoy life?
I used to beat myself up for being so blue and negative. Especially when my life was actually not bad. But good. I felt like a bad Christian because Scripture says be thankful in everything and I was a complainer. Sounds like I was trying to earn God’s love, rather than embrace His grace, huh?
All that said I’ve uncovered a profound truth: True forgiveness leads to peace and wellness of soul.
This weekend I wrote a letter to my molester. I mailed it today. Releasing him and offering him an invitation to know Christ. And this letter was the greatest thing I’ve ever written. The peace that came over me was better than any drug, sex, vacation, or shopping fix. It was free and for once, I feel completely free.
Sure, I’ve forgiven people over my lifetime. But sincere forgiveness comes with a feeling of soul wellness. There’s a freedom and a release I can’t understand. But I can say it’s true because I feel it. Thank you, God!
I can actually say I know what loving my enemies feels like, even if just a little. I have a tiny glimpse of the unconditional love of God. He forgives and invites all–included molesters.
He forgives, invites and loves ALL. Who can fathom a love so deep?
Bless you for doing Gods will my beautiful friend.
How wonderful Tiffany that you were able to write that letter! God uses our obedience!
I read a quick book the other day -something you said in your post made me think of it, but can’t remember what now that I’m not looking at the post… but the book is called The Next Level by David Gregory (author of Dinner with a Perfect Stranger). I posted about it yesterday at http://www.robinsreadingroom.blogspot.com
It is a quick read, but has some interesting info in story form.
May God bless you and continue to encourage you on your walk with Him. I believe the hardest trials bring the greatest rewards.
Wow. The power of forgiveness – to give you peace.
Good Job Tiffany, you have entered a season of rest, where peace passes understanding. I am so happy for you and your grace walk. Your writing and you have grown by leaps and bounds since I met you.
Blessings,
Paulette
It was not too long ago when you said you weren’t sure whether you could do that(write the letter). God is moving in your life, my dear. I am so proud of you.
Tiffany, you amaze me. You are always right on target with something I need. I found it. Here tonight. From your typing hands, but from God’s heart. Thanks again sweet girl!
BTW, I haven’t forgotten, but maybe you’ve moved on to something else….I have just been so caught up in the things with my sister, Wanda’s passing and it will continue for a bit. So, if you need to move on…is okay with me. I love you!
Oh Tiffany…
I’m just so proud of you, and I know this must of been the most sweetest RELEASE ever!
I know it was only by God’s grace you could do this, and your OBEDIENT heart.
Wish I was there to give you a great big HUG!
“We went through fire and through water: but thou broughtest us out into a wealthy place” (Ps. 66:12)