Pathway to Self Healing and Forgiveness

1Then Jacob looked up and saw Esau coming with his 400 men. So he divided the children among Leah, Rachel, and his two servant wives. 2He put the servant wives and their children at the front, Leah and her children next, and Rachel and Joseph last.

3Then Jacob went on ahead. As he approached his brother, he bowed to the ground seven times before him. 4Then Esau ran to meet him and embraced him, threw his arms around his neck, and kissed him. And they both wept

5Then Esau looked at the women and children and asked, “Who are these people with you?” “These are the children God has graciously given to me, your servant,” Jacob replied.Genesis 33:1-5

This is the last part of Jacob’s story, and much has changed. Having fled to Laban, Jacob now flees from him. Having exploited Esau, Jacob now seeks to be reconciled.

Having left home single and poor, he now returns with a family and wealth. The only constant from the past is his uncertainty: Jacob wonders what Esau will do—whether he still harbors anger and will seek revenge. But Jacob has learned to trust in God.

This story has much to say about everyday life and relationships. Look for lessons on dealing with jealousy; working hard; releasing children; letting go of bitterness; reconciling; and forgiving.

When the two brothers meet again, the bitterness over losing his birthright and blessing (Genesis 25:29-34, 27:1-40:1-40) seems to have been forgotten by Esau. He greets his brother, Jacob, with a great hug (33:1-11). Imagine how difficult this must have been for a man who once had actually plotted to kill his brother (27:41).

Instead of being consumed by thoughts of vengeance, however, Esau is content with what he has and is eager to reconcile. Time away from Jacob has allowed Esau’s bitter wounds to heal. Jacob even exclaims how great it is to see his brother, obviously pleased with him (33:10).

N/B. Sometimes you got to take time away from the source of your pain and hurt in order to begin your self healing.

N/B. You can’t afford to be tangled with what or who is causing you pain and expect to be healed. Wisdom requires that you walk away and get a fresh perspective and examine the core of issues before re-engaging.

Life can bring struggle and pain; we may even feel cheated, as Esau did. But we don’t have to hold on to the past and remain bitter.

We can remove our bitterness by honestly expressing our feelings to God, forgiving those who have wronged us, and being content with what we have.

N/B. Forgiveness is primarily for you and by it you start your healing Journey . Recognize I said ” Healing Journey “. It will or may take time. Be OK staying engaged.

What grudges have you been nursing?

Whom are you refusing to forgive?

What revengeful scenarios have you been imagining?

Confess your thoughts and feelings to God and allow him to heal your memories. Be better, not bitter.

Shalom.