Forgiveness

A few weeks ago, I was drifting in-between consciousness and sleep when I had a dream or vision, or whatever you really want to call it.  You know what I am talkin about though, right?

I was kind of conversing with myself, and/or the Lord.  I was thinking about forgiveness. That was weird because I didn't have un-forgiveness in my heart nor had I recently encountered any person or situation that would cause me to question this issue, however, that is where I was.  I was thinking about how I would answer the question, "What is forgiveness?" 

You know, I have come to realize that there are many ways we, as Christians, define big words like forgiveness based on culture or society norms and not based on the Truth.  So, I want to know how to correctly define forgiveness.  After all, I have received the greatest gift of forgiveness that one can receive, right?

So, I went on dreaming/visualizing/conversing and here is what I came up with.  It made so much sense to me and was so clear that I wanted to share.

I started with un-forgiveness.  What is it?  Why do I feel it?  Is it a feeling?

Un-forgiveness:  when I refuse to let go of a situation because I feel like I deserve or have to ability to rightly judge the situation/person for their choices and actions.

Forgiveness:  Turning a situation/person(s) over to the One who has the ability/authority/deserves to rightly judge a situation/person for their choices and actions.

Therefore, when I chose to forgive, I am choosing to acknowledge that I am
1) NOT in control of anyone
2) NOT deserving of judging
3) Trusting the Judge
4) Accepting of grace for me and others

Wow!  So, at the heart of un-forgiveness, lies a lack of trust and severe control issues......no wonder we are to forgive ;-)

And then, just like the Daddy I know, He allowed me to walk out my new found understanding!  HA!