My dear, how often have you found yourself ensnared by the sparkling allure of a tempting gift, only to realize too late that the glittering façade hid a trap? The devil, cunning and deceitful, often tempts us with enticing offers. What we perceive as gifts of happiness, are often well-disguised tools of division, discord, and discouragement.
Just as a man might be entrapped by the weight of a substantial debt, the burden of past transgressions can chain us down, crippling our spiritual growth. Yet the truth we must remember is this: the source of our true happiness lies not in these earthly illusions, but in our heavenly Father’s divine grace.
Sometimes people wrong us and do things that betray our trust or friendship. In such situations we are often angry and can find a reason to forgive them for their transgressions. What you need to know my dear is that such thoughts only serve to entrap us in a cycle of hatred and unforgiveness. When we harbor resentment in our hearts, the devil rejoices for he wants us to cling on to the transgressions of others and be shackled by negativity.
Holding Grudges Weakens Us
By making us focus on past transgressions, the devil discourages us from doing good. He makes us afraid to try, to change, to grow, because we are constantly reminded of our past mistakes. He makes us see only the faults in others, discouraging us from forgiving and understanding them. It is his way of keeping us trapped in a cycle of fear and resentment, unable to break free and embrace God’s love and forgiveness.
In his shrewdness, the devil exploits our weaknesses. He stirs up division and animosity, tempting us to hold on to past transgressions. This is much like being bound by a burdensome loan, unable to make the repayment, and stuck in a cycle of accumulation. Remember the words of James 4:7, “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”
Forgiveness Strengthens Our Bonds With Christ
My beloved one, forgiveness is not just an act of benevolence towards those who have wronged us. It is a crucial step for us to reconnect with God’s divine graces, much like repaying a debt to regain financial freedom. Holding on to past grievances only serves to alienate us from God’s love, imprisoning us in a cycle of hatred, anger, and resentment.
In spite of our imperfections and natural disposition to commit sin, Christ chose to give up His life for us in the ultimate act of forgiveness in order to secure our salvation. It is this forgiveness that bridges the gap between us and our heavenly Father. This is why it is important that we too learn to forgive. This act of absolution allows us to rise above our past and truly connect with God’s love.
Forgiving someone that hurts you does not mean that you are weak and will allow yourself to be taken advantage of again. Forgiveness is not an act of naivety or letting down one’s guard. It is about recognizing that God’s love reigns above all and making a vow to reconnect with Him by casting aside all hatred and anger that clouds your heart. At the same time you learn from your past experiences to better guard yourself from negative situations and people who are trying to “steal” your light.
Breaking Free from the Snares
Breaking free from the devil’s snares and forgiving past transgressions might seem like a daunting task, as difficult as repaying a hefty debt. However, it is not an impossible task. Just as a man burdened with debt finds ways to pay it back, we must also find ways to forgive and let go.
You do not have to try to do everything all at once, but rather focus on paying off one loan at a time. Forgiveness requires a step-by-step approach. When we confront our past mistakes and forgive ourselves and others, we pave the way towards our own spiritual freedom.
“Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” – Ephesians 4:31-32
Overcoming the enemies ploy is a battle that begins from within you. To be freed of our sins, we must strive to love like that of Christ. Just as our loving savior made the eternal sacrifice for the sake of our own transgressions, we too must follow in his example and cast aside the chains of resentment.
