I don’t think any of us have a clue as to what God’s truth may be. It’s asinine to think otherwise.
Cletus, I struggle with the idea that I must forgive those who actively harm me and mine, and appear to believe they have or are doing no wrong.
My understanding is that if they ask for forgiveness, apologize, and try to make amends for the harm, then I am totally wrong not to accept the apology and forgive them.
But, what if they refuse to acknowledge the harm, keep on engaging in the harmful words and behaviors? I can’t see that God would want us to tolerate such, and to expose our children and loved ones to more...
I think we have an obligation to pray for them, that they recognize what they have done, and change their ways, but I do not think we are obliged to tolerate, ignore the behavior, or continue the relationship.
But, I could be wrong. Jesus did say “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do. I try to say that to myself, but I also stay away from such people, even relatives who have engaged in horrible behavior.
Cletus, I struggle with the idea that I must forgive those who actively harm me and mine, and appear to believe they have or are doing no wrong.
My understanding is that if they ask for forgiveness, apologize, and try to make amends for the harm, then I am totally wrong not to accept the apology and forgive them.
But, what if they refuse to acknowledge the harm, keep on engaging in the harmful words and behaviors? I can’t see that God would want us to tolerate such, and to expose our children and loved ones to more...
I think we have an obligation to pray for them, that they recognize what they have done, and change their ways, but I do not think we are obliged to tolerate, ignore the behavior, or continue the relationship.
But, I could be wrong. Jesus did say “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do. I try to say that to myself, but I also stay away from such people, even relatives who have engaged in horrible behavior.