The Chip On Your Shoulder

It is easy to carry invisible weights; wounds from words, disappointments, or moments we believe should have gone differently. They can become chips on our shoulders, subtly shaping how we respond to people. Scripture says, “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you” (Ephesians 4:32, ESV). Forgiveness is not a sign of weakness. It is the strength to refuse to be shaped by bitterness.

When we hold past offences, we risk building walls where bridges should stand. Unforgiveness narrows the heart and clouds the future. Forgiveness frees us to live fully in the present, with peace and purpose. Healing begins when we release others into the grace we ourselves have received.

If you feel a heaviness that you cannot name, consider what burden you might be bearing unnecessarily. It is time to forgive, not because they deserve it, but because you do.

Quote

You are never stronger than when you forgive.

Prayer

Lord, help me to lay down every grudge and pick up Your grace. Amen.

Action Point

Choose to forgive one person in prayer today, asking God to heal your heart.

Copyright notices

(ESV) Scripture quotations are from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version® (ESV®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Use in other publications.

You can freely use this devotional personally, in your Church or Ministry, when including this notice.   Copyright © Carl Brettle. Subscribe for free via www.imani.org