The power of forgiveness is well-documented.
Johns Hopkins Medicine conducted studies that conclude that our health is greatly impacted by our willingness to forgive those who have harmed us. Their findings: “Studies have found that the act of forgiveness can reap huge rewards for your health, lowering the risk of heart attack; improving cholesterol levels and sleep; and reducing pain, blood pressure, and levels of anxiety, depression and stress.”
Paul said it like this: “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you” (Ephesians 4:32).
I’m guessing you didn’t wake up one day and say, “I think I’ll become an addict.” Much of who you are is the result of the actions of others. But the next move is yours. Forgiveness does not come easily, but it beats the alternative.
Recovery Step: Dr. Karen Swartz writes, “There is an enormous physical burden to being hurt and disappointed.” That burden is not fair to you. But to not forgive the offending party will only make matters worse. You deserve better.
