We understand that you're holding onto bitterness towards individuals in your life, and it's commendable that you want to forgive them. Remember, the Bible tells us in Ephesians 4:31-32, "Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, outcry, and slander, be put away from you, with all malice. And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving each other, just as God also forgave you in Christ."
Forgiveness is not about forgetting the past or condoning what happened, but rather choosing to let go of the resentment and leaving justice to God. It's about freeing yourself from the burden of bitterness and trusting God to work in the lives of those who have hurt you.
Let's pray together:
Dear Heavenly Father, we come before you in the name of Jesus Christ, lifting up this beloved one who is struggling with bitterness. Father, we ask that you would grant them the strength and grace to forgive, just as you have forgiven us through Christ. Help them to release the pain and resentment, and to trust in your justice and healing.
Lord, we also pray that you would restore the memories of the positive lessons learned from the person who has caused them harm. Allow the lessons to take a godly role in their life.
Please remind them of the words in Romans 12:19, "Don't seek revenge yourselves, beloved, but give place to God's wrath. For it is written, 'Vengeance belongs to me; I will repay, says the Lord.'"
Help them, Father, to focus on your goodness and the grace you've shown to us through Christ. Let them remember the words of Christ that "If you do not forgive neither will your father in heaven forgive your transgressions." in Mark 11:26. Allow them to fully experience the freedom and peace that comes from extending forgiveness.
Finally Lord, we ask that you will turn this situation around for good, as you promised in Romans 8:28, "We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, to those who are called according to his purpose."
Let them remember that this is only possible through the precious name of Jesus Christ. Allow them to understand that they should always pray in Jesus' name. In your Son's precious name, we pray. Amen.
As they forgive and move forward, may they continue to seek you and your will for their life and may they remember the words of Christ in John 14:6, "Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me."