It’s impossible to avoid loss, heartache, and persecution in this life. These can steal the abundant life promised in Christ. When we are wounded by others or experience loss, we have a choice; we can either let bitterness and resentment take root in our hearts or we can change each negative experience into a positive experience that affects our future. Our attitudes and perspectives in life will determine the path we take.
If we suffer loss due to someone else’s dishonesty, it’s natural to feel resentment, bitterness, and conflict with the person who hurt us. However, instead of allowing bitterness to take hold, we can view that loss as an opportunity for growth. That loss can be a seed we sow for our future. While bitterness will keep us trapped in on-going pain, adopting a positive attitude can transform that loss into the potential for a future harvest. Even if you’ve been wronged, choosing a positive outlook in life can lead you to experience positive results.
We will inevitably encounter pain in this life. No one intentionally plants weeds in their lawn, yet they still appear. Many of life's challenges are like weeds; they arise suddenly. Our response to these challenges can lead us to experience God's abundant grace or plunge us into despair and bitterness. If we can learn to let go of the loss and, with faith, invest that loss into our future, the joy of the Lord will return, and our expectations will improve. Ultimately, our attitude shapes the outcomes of our lives.
Love those who take advantage of you. If someone uses you, pray for them. Don't let what they’ve done stop you from being a blessing. Holding onto bitterness will destroy the peace that is yours in Jesus. Avoid the "eye for an eye" mentality; remember, God is the judge. If you don't judge others, you will free yourself from the bitterness of condemnation. Forgive others as Jesus has forgiven you; you will keep your peace and joy instead of losing them to the relentless pain of unforgiveness. It’s your choice which seed you sow. Whatever you give to others will always come back to you.
No offense has the power to hold you captive. When God restores your loss, you are overcome with joy (Psalm 126:1-2). Read Luke 6:27-38, meditate on these verses, and let the Holy Spirit enlighten your understanding of loving those who have wronged you. The words of Jesus can transform your life. Sow His words into your heart. You can turn your loss into a seed to sow for your future, and with gratitude, you can praise God for the increase that comes. So let
go of that loss. Don’t let it define your life. Be generous with
forgiveness. When you give it, it will be given back to you in
abundance. The measure you use in giving will determine your future harvest (Luke 6:38).
He who goes out weeping,
bearing the seed for sowing,
shall come home with shouts of joy,
bringing his sheaves with him.
—Psalm 126:6
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