Forgiveness & Attitude

The other morning I had the misfortune of being the victim of someone’s negative attitude. I went back to my office; I began to replay the conversation through my mind in an attempt to figure out what I had said to trigger such a hateful response.

I spent the rest of my day wrestling with that negative spirit trying to grow into turmoil in my heart & mind, which lead to a not so productive day. I found myself transferring that negativity onto another.

The next day, (after being convicted by the Holy Spirit) I went to the co-worker that I had shared my negativity with and asked for her forgiveness. She graciously accepted my apology and was very understanding. It felt good to be forgiven, but something still wasn't right in my heart.

All weekend I struggled, trying to pinpoint the problem, but no resolution. I prayed Sunday night before I went to bed for the Lord to reveal to me what the problem was. The next morning as I was getting ready for work, there it was. I was harboring anger in my heart for the person who had offended me. I needed to go to them, explain what I felt and ask for their forgiveness. They did forgive me, but didn't recall their attitude toward me and said it sounded like they needed to ask for MY forgiveness. In the process, they told me that if they ever reacted like that again, they wanted me to bring it to their attention at that moment so they could correct themselves immediately.

How often do we experience circumstances like this, and don't give them a second thought? Are we careful to guard ourselves from what we allow to enter or spirit?

Do we hold anger, bitterness, or resentment in our heart for someone who has no idea that they have offended us? Do you have the ability to humble yourself, admit that you have allowed sin to enter your heart and ask for forgiveness?

Ephesians 5:31-32 (KJV) 31 For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh. 32 This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church.

Nann C