Excerpt from a Purpose Driven Life

Never hold grudges because bitterness and resentment always destroy fellowship. Because we're imperfect,sinful people,we inevitably hurt each other when we're together for a long enough time. sometimes we hurt each other intentionally and sometimes unintentionally,but either way,it takes massive amounts of mercy and grace to create and maintain fellowship.Remember,you will never be asked to forgive someone else more than God has already forgiven you. Whenever you are hurt by someone,you have a choice to make:Will I use my energy and emotions for retaliation or resolution? You can't do both.Many people are reluctant to show mercy because they don't know the difference between trust and forgiveness.Forgiveness is letting go of the past.Trust has to do with future behavior.Forgiveness must be immediate,whether or not a person asks for it. Trust must be rebuilt over time. Trust requires a track record. If someone hurts you repeatedly,you are commanded by God to forgive them instantly,but you are not expected to trust them immediately, and you are not expected to continue allowing them to hurt you.


Excerpt from A Purpose Driven Life