The F Word: A Gift of the Season

Ladies, let me just say this upfront—when I write, it’s because the Lord is working something out in me. And this week, He’s been dealing with me about the “F” word: forgiveness.

I mean, I wrestled with it. Cried about it. Shouted at it. Pouted too. In the end, I looked like a big baby, but you know what? That didn’t stop God from making me deal with it. Because when God puts His finger on something, He’s not letting you off the hook until you confront it.

Here’s the truth: forgiveness is a process. It’s not a one-time decision that magically makes everything better. It takes work. It takes faith. And most of all, it takes the Holy Spirit.

How many of us say we’ve forgiven someone but secretly hold onto resentment, bitterness, or anger? We might have convinced ourselves we’ve moved on, but when their name comes up, or we’re reminded of what they did, that familiar sting rises in our hearts. And let’s be real—if we’re still feeling that sting, have we truly forgiven?

God doesn’t just deal with our words; He deals with our hearts. And unforgiveness? It’s a self-imposed prison. Sure, we want to justify holding onto the hurt—because let’s face it, we were really hurt. But the truth is, the longer we cling to it, the more it harms us, not them. While we’re stuck replaying the pain, the person who hurt us is probably living their best life.

Forgiveness is a skill we have to learn and keep practicing. Learn to do it quickly. Get good at it. Learn to let go and let God handle what you can’t. It’s not about excusing the hurt—it’s about trusting God to deal with it while you choose freedom.

Here’s what God reminded me this week: forgiveness is just the beginning. He calls us to go further. He calls us to:

• Pray for those who hurt us (yes, really).

• Do good to them—not in a fake way, but genuinely.

• Be kind—not because they deserve it, but because God’s kindness to us sets the example.

And don’t forget this: forgiveness isn’t just for others—it’s for you too. Self-forgiveness is just as important. Stop punishing yourself for past mistakes when God has already extended His grace.

So this season, as we give gifts to loved ones, let’s not forget the gift of forgiveness—for others and for ourselves. Let’s unwrap freedom, peace, and the joy that only comes when we let go of what’s holding us back.

Forgiveness is the F word that brings true freedom. Will you give yourself that gift today?

-Chassitie L.