Who knew there was a day dedicated to forgiveness? 

     Maybe you knew, but I didn’t. It turns out September 1 is National Forgiveness Day. Like many others, I had to think about it for a moment, and then I realized that this might just be a good idea. Just a few days ago I told a friend, “Let it go,” when she shared an event from her past that continues to cause her pain years after the actual event. I was not being heartless, but for some time I have been aware of the shadow of past pain that seems to continue to affect her. I feel it pulling her back, keeping her from enjoying some pleasures of her current life. My friend talked for a few minutes, confiding that she has managed to let go of some of the pain she experienced in a former church setting, but there are some other areas that she is still making peace with in her life. I was so happy that she managed to release some of those terrible memories and that she was actively seeking to release other situations to God. We have no power to change the past, but we can give it to the Lord and continue to go forward in our lives.

      Countless thousands have read The Hiding Place, the story of Corrie Ten Boom's life and the beautiful testimony of how God helped her to forgive the unforgiveable.  Forgiveness is a place God can take us when we seek Him. It is difficult but necessary for our own mental, physical and spiritual health.

 This year let’s join thousands of others as we allow ourselves to grow spiritually. Let’s take the time to forgive and let go of those personal areas of pain we have held onto. Let’s do it with God’s help, not because the individual deserves it (they may or may not). As the song says, "They will know we are Christians by our love.”  Lord, help us to forgive those who have hurt and injured us. From a day I didn’t know existed to one I plan to take part in, I invite you to join me on National Forgiveness Day on September 1. God can start us on this journey, and He can help us to forgive 

     .Imperfect Lives, Perfect Grace tells the story of Leah and her journey to honestly, forgiveness, love and a closer walk with God. Learn more about her at https://emjohnsonauthor.com/