Demolishing Grudges

Midweek Meditation                                     

Galatians 4:3-7

“Because you are His sons, God sent the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, the Spirit who calls out, Abba, Father.” (Galatians 4:6)

Are you acquainted with someone who holds a grudge, maybe against someone who offended or hurt them? Do you do this? It is easy to get stuck like this, in a rut of rancor. This may have been me years ago; before I learned about Jesus and His love and forgiveness. This sounds simplified, trite even - but true non the less.

As a Christian, new to the faith, we cling to old ways until God's Word and His Love seep into us. This happens when we practice growing our faith. We grow our faith by reading our Bibles and by seeking out the company of those we recognize as strong believers. By allowing them to speak into our lives and build relationships with us, our hearts are certain to change.

This way of living is more important than ever, with all the hate that seems to prevail. Hate comes from holding a grudge, from unforgiveness, and from Satan, the master deceiver. Remember the thief on the cross next to Jesus? At the last minute he recognized His Savior and called out to Him. Jesus could have held a grudge against the man, but instead forgave him in an instant.

Dear Jesus, help me to reach out to those I struggle with relationally and turn them from enemies into dear friends. Amen.

                                                                                                                                                                                            Judy Webb