DAY 10: WEDNESDAY

Forgiveness Does Not Mean No Boundaries

“And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.”
Ephesians 4:32 (KJV)

DEVOTIONAL

Forgiveness is important, but forgiveness does not mean pretending something harmful was okay. It does not mean you must keep giving someone the same access to hurt you.

Kids need to know this clearly. You can forgive and still tell a trusted adult what happened. You can forgive and still have a boundary. You can forgive and still need time.

In a safe home, people can speak about hurt without being punished for telling the truth.

If you hurt someone, do not demand quick forgiveness so you can feel better.

Own what you did, apologize, and change your behavior. That is how trust is rebuilt.

TAKE A MOMENT

Is there a difference between forgiving someone and trusting them? What helps trust grow again?

BUILD IT THIS WEEK

If you need to apologize, make it specific. If someone has hurt you, tell a safe trusted adult instead of carrying it alone.

PRAYER

Dear Heavenly Father,

thank You for teaching me how to build my life on Jesus.

Help me grow in forgiveness.

Show me what belongs to me, help me tell the truth, and teach me to respond with wisdom instead of reacting from fear or anger.

Help me notice the growth happening in my family without trying to control it. Make me someone who brings truth, courage, responsibility, kindness, and peace into the places You have put me.

In Jesus' name,

Amen.