Trb Circle

Lately, it feels like the Lord’s been holding up a mirror, and honestly, the person staring back isn’t always who I thought I was. It’s not like a big, scary judgment, but more like a gentle, focused peek into the past. Little flashes of old conversations, how I reacted to things, choices I made – and seeing them now, with this new clarity, can be a little unsettling.
I’ve always tried to be a good person, someone fair and kind. But these revisited moments are showing me a deeper truth. My intentions might have been good, but sometimes, my actions or words missed the mark. Maybe I was sharper than I needed to be, or not as thoughtful as I could’ve been. It’s like my own history is stepping forward, not to point fingers, but to give me a more complete picture of who I’ve truly been.
There was a space where I let some shadows creep in – those sneaky little tendrils of hatred and anger. Like a stubborn weed, they took root and started choking the good things in my spirit. The practices that used to bring me closer to God slowly got pushed aside, overshadowed by all that negativity. One tiny, unchecked thought just blossomed into this unwanted obsession, leading me down a path where parts of me felt foreign, almost unrecognizable.
It’s humbling, and sometimes even painful, to face the ways we haven’t quite lived up to our own ideals, let alone God’s. It’s tough, for sure. But even in this discomfort, there’s a huge sense of gratitude. Gratitude for a loving Father who cares enough to gently, yet firmly, show us these areas where we can grow and get things right.
This whole journey of self-discovery has brought me face-to-face with a powerful truth: forgiveness has to start inside.
It’s easy to talk about forgiving others, right? But what about those times we need to forgive ourselves? For the harsh words we blurted out, for the chances we missed because of fear or pride, for those moments we acted out of anger or insecurity. These are the echoes that can stick around, causing inner turmoil and making it hard to move forward with a clear heart.
Maybe, like me, you’ve had moments where your own memories felt like witnesses, highlighting the imperfections and missteps along your path. Maybe you’re carrying the weight of past actions or words left unsaid.
Today, I want to invite you to explore the idea of forgiveness within your own heart.
Releasing the Past
Choose to release: Make a conscious decision to let go of the guilt and self-blame that might be holding you captive. Forgiveness, especially self-forgiveness, is such a freeing act.
This isn’t a one-time thing, but an ongoing journey. As we become more aware of our imperfections, the need for self-forgiveness will pop up again. Embrace it as a chance for deeper healing and a more authentic relationship with yourself and with God.
The Lord’s loving revelations aren’t meant to crush us; they’re meant to set us free. By honestly facing our past and extending forgiveness to ourselves, we open ourselves up to greater peace, healing, and a renewed ability to walk in His light. Let’s embrace that honest mirror and let it guide us toward a more whole and forgiving heart.
A Gentle Reflection
Take a moment for some quiet reflection: Allow yourself to gently revisit some of those memories that bring a sense of unease or regret. Don’t get stuck in shame, but simply observe them with compassion.
Acknowledge your humanity: We’re all imperfect beings on a journey of growth. Mistakes are a part of life. Remember that these past actions don’t define your worth.
Extend grace to your former self: Speak to that past version of you with the same kindness and understanding you would offer a dear friend.
Seek God’s forgiveness: Bring these moments before the Lord, acknowledging them openly.
What are your thoughts on this? Have you ever felt this nudge to look inward?