T.D. Jakes is one of the most popular ministers today. Hear what he has to say about forgiveness as well as my interpretation and free your heart of any grudges.
- Quote #1: “Forgiveness is about empowering yourself, rather than empowering your past.” In other words, you take back your power by letting go of a grudge. The offender’s presence – physically or mentally – no longer affects you. You stay in peace regardless of a past offense.
- Quote #2: “Children are not unforgiving. You can punish them and they will hug you in a few minutes.” My mother drove this truth home to me. She said it was never wise for parents to get involved in fights their children had with their friends. An hour later, all of the children will be playing together. The parents on the other hand will continue to fight and hold onto grudges for years.
- Quote #3: “I think the first step is to understand that forgiveness does not exonerate the perpetrator. Forgiveness liberates the victim. It’s a gift you give yourself.” Forgiveness does mean the other party is let off the hook. Boundaries should still be set if the individual refuses to respect you and acknowledge the offense. You just strengthen yourself by not allowing him or her to control your feelings because of a weakness or hurtful action.
- Quote #4: “Here is the amazing thing about Easter; the Resurrection Sunday for Christians is this, that Christ in the dying moments on the cross gives us the greatest illustration of forgiveness possible.” Jesus Christ really is the role model for forgiveness. He died for mankind’s sins and offers anyone salvation. But, the person has to act. They have to acknowledge he exists and died for his or her sins. It’s a two way street.
- Quote #5: “We cannot embrace God’s forgiveness if we are so busy clinging to past wounds and nursing old grudges.” Focusing on one’s hurts because of an injustice seems to be the American way. I know – I’ve had a long history with this type of thought pattern. Getting out of a victim mentality is a must and the first step as T.D. Jakes details is not meditating on past wounds and grudges. Focus on your future and the good things ahead of you.
- Quote #6: “We think that forgiveness is weakness, but it’s absolutely not; it takes a very strong person to forgive.” Forgiveness, only a strong man or woman can forgive another human being for being just that – human. Most people struggle in this area all of their lives. Why? The opportunity to hold a grudge always manifests itself.
Ready to forgive? Read more quotes from T.D. Jakes by visiting Brainyquote.com. He has a lot of wisdom that can help you regardless of your religious beliefs.
Source: Brainy Quote