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Self-Forgiveness - Part 3

He has made my skin and my flesh grow old and has broken my bones.
Lamentations 3:4

Refusing to forgive yourself is like trying to drive your car with the brakes on; it prevents all forward momentum. Here are some contributing factors: 1) Unrealistic expectations! We each have a set of subconscious rules about how we should behave. Many come from childhood and no longer work. For example, how realistic is it to think you can work 12-hour days, attend all school functions, maintain a perfect house, get enough rest and still have time for God and your family? Listen: "Let's look at the way we're living and reorder our lives..." 2) Feeling bad, instead of doing good! Listen: "If you fail the test, do something about it" (2 Corinthians 13:5). If you feel like you failed as a parent, work to become a terrific grandparent, or reach out to some needy child or teenager. There are lots of opportunities around you. Remember, "those who help others are helped" (Proverbs 11:25). The roots of happiness grow in the soil of service - so get busy! 3) Getting things out of perspective! Instead of telling yourself what a terrible person you are, remind yourself of the good things you've done. If you can't think of any, begin making some memories. If Ebenezer Scrooge could do it, you can too. Above all, keep these words in mind: "When it's sin versus grace, grace wins hands down," (Romans 5:20). That means regardless of how badly you've messed up, God stands ready to give you a fresh start.

Prayer
Heavenly Father – thank you for your grace that gives me a fresh start each day! Help me live in that grace each day and reflect that grace with all who you place in my path today. In Jesus' Name, Amen