We have all been hurt by someone. Unfortunately it is an inevitable part of life. Betrayal, lies, arguments, rumors, gossip, false accusations, withdrawl, abandonment, apathy, failed expectations, anger, hatred - the list goes on and on. Being deeply hurt can cut straight to our heart and cause us so much pain and so much anger that we may feel like we can never forgive the person or persons who hurt us.
I've been there. In fact, I'm currently hanging on to hurt and anger. I'm finding it very hard to let go, forgive, and move on. But being a person of love, mercy, and forgiveness is what each and every Christian is called to; in fact it is required of us. Jesus makes this very clear in the gospels. However, there is one line of scripture that really punches me in the gut:
"But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you...", (Matthew 5:44).
Love my enemies and pray for those who persecute me? This is the hardest thing for me to do because loving my enemies and praying for my enemies demands that I extend mercy and forgiveness to them. It demands that I let go of my anger and let go of my hurt. It demands that I free my heart from the burden of unforgiveness that causes damage to me and to my relationship with Jesus.
To forgive a deep, lingering hurt; to heal, is to pray. Ask Jesus for his help. Ask him for the strength, humbleness, and courage to forgive. Ask him to help you love others the way he loves them.