Day 19_We've All Been There

Welcome back! Today let's start with some music and a message.

Head to the video icon above and watch Toby Mac and Lecrae.

Let us know what you thought about the message.

The song reminds us that we have to recognize when we cause someone else pain. As Mr. Mac said, "We all need forgiveness sometimes."

Sure people hurt us - badly sometimes.

We have options. We can live life with a sense of freedom, or we can continue to live it in a form of bondage to the one who hurt us.

How much do you understand the importance of forgiving and moving on as a way to gain that sense of inner strength and freedom?

In the next 24 hours, approach someone YOU have hurt and apologize.

Offer no excuses for your behavior. Keep it simple. Say you are sorry and apologize.

Their reaction shouldn't matter to you. You're responsible only for your actions not theirs.

But who knows? Maybe they’ll surprise you in a good way.

How willing are you to do this?

Maybe that doesn't apply to you so much. Maybe it's another problem.

Could it be that you've allowed others to control you? That plan tends to fail, too. If you're submissive when you should express your opinion, your silence fuels anger, depression and/or shame.

Can you see how this option can't have a good ending?

So, you're at a crossroad and have a decision to make.

Freedom or Emotional Bondage?

How do you think your decision will play itself out over time?

As you go forward, keep in mind those you may hurt along the way. It's an inevitable part of life, and we urge you to fix the hurt as quickly as you can.

Like Mr. Mac says, "We've all stepped across that line. And nothing's sweeter than the day we find forgiveness."

Do you agree?