Honestly, I don’t want to forgive them…
Luke 6:27–49 | June 23, 2026
Yesterday God let me vent against those who have hurt me.
Today he turns it back on me.
And it's so hard to even read, let alone want to do.
But this is the path to intimacy with God, enjoying his presence, receiving his blessing, and walking in his power.
"Love your enemies."
But they really hurt me and my family.
They used God's name to slander mine.
They were my best friends.
How can you ask this of me?
Honestly, eight years later, I still can't forgive them.
Then Jesus says:
"Do something wonderful for them in return for their hatred."
"Bless them."
"Accept it as your mission to pray for them."
"Serve them and minister to them."
God, you know I have a whole list of things I want to do to them.
And this isn't it.
I'm sorry.
I need you to do so much more work in me in this area.
This hurt and anger is something I need to let go of.
I just don't know how.
Or if I'm honest, I don't even want to.
And yet you say:
"You will receive a rich reward."
I want that.
I want you.
So if my hurt and anger are holding me back, then Father, help remove them.
I don't know how.
On another topic, I'm struggling with this command:
"Forsake the habit of criticizing and judging others."
This is closely connected to the last area of confession.
The pastors, churches, and Christians who are arrogant and militant against others have damaged your reputation.
I honestly believe this is one of the biggest reasons people say no to Jesus.
Part of me wants to speak against them.
I want them to stop.
I want to warn people not to follow them or become like them.
I want Palm Springs to know we're not like that.
I feel like this righteous indignation could make me more like Jesus.
But they think the same thing about their angry expressions.
And I don't want to become like them.
I don't want to sound like them.
I don't want to feel like them.
They can believe what they want.
I just wish they would stop being so intolerant.
But I guess I need to let you handle that.
I need to share the wonderful news of Jesus.
Focus on love.
Focus on the positive.
Focus on your grace.
And let them make fools of themselves.
Father, help me with this.
And help me and Passion Church:
"Give generously so that generous gifts will be given back to you."
Lord, let abundant gifts pour out upon us with such an overflowing measure that it runs over the top.
Help me to truly follow you and do what you say.