These Boots Were Made for Talking’ About Forgiveness of Self

By: Deborah Lovett

“…and love your neighbor as yourself.” Matthew 19:19
“Love… keeps no record of wrongs.” 1 Corinthians 13:5

Today these boots were made for talkin’ about forgiving ourselves. This is a topic not discussed too often in the pulpit of our churches. Let me ask you,”Are you holding on to past sins even though you know that Jesus has forgiven you? Do you truly love yourself? Do you have a hard time releasing shame?”

Many times if you are anything like me, we get caught up in a catch 22; we don't receive the full extent of the freedom Christ died for because the enemy has duped us into believing a lie somewhere along the line. We know and understand that Christ is our Savior, died for us at Calvary, shed His blood for our sins and even believe He has washed us white as snow. But for some reason, we continue to hold unforgiveness in our hearts towards ourselves. “Oh, I could never forgive myself for that,” we claim as we hold onto the shame of our sin like a baby holds a blanket. Only our blanket is one of blaming ourselves.

Forgiveness is a blessing of huge grace we choose to receive. It is a decision we choose to make in agreement with Jesus’ provision for us. When we are in agreement with God we find the ultimate contentment. On the other hand, sometimes our pride creeps in and convinces us not to forgive ourselves because deep down we still want some control. The pride of our hearts is the most deadly type of deceit. By working through deceit we will weed out our loss of peace, our willfulness, our stubbornness, and the bitter roots we latch onto that are actually by-products of the lack of love we have for ourselves. As we acknowledge our shameful feelings God will help us to work out our salvation with fear and trembling before Him whether or not they are validated feelings.

Our lives are a work in progress. This process must be kept with a careful eye for truth, by continuing to soak in the many commands, promises, love, mercy, and hope found in Scripture. We must apply these principles to our lives through an ongoing effort that demands diligence. We will experience no growth only stagnation in a life that takes no responsibility for its choices. Spiritual deadness will result. Power will be absent. The empty well syndrome will set in.

Jesus has always been a gentleman who never forces agreement, yet so subtly nudges us to love ourselves. This is the true miracle of His grace and is where the true freedom of forgiveness is found. When our brokenness meets up with His broken body in total surrender we find the blessings of peace beyond understanding which in turn allows us to love Him, ourselves and others selflessly. It is all about Him!

Love yourself today and accept His total forgiveness. He died for you to have it.
Deborah