Spiritual detox

Many of us have begun this brand new year of 2013 with a resolve to live healthier lifestyles by exercising more, eating healthy, and losing those extra, unwanted pounds. Others are in the process of implementing a plan that will promote the cleansing of our bodies of all the poisons and toxins that have accumulated over time. 

We are refraining from eating unhealthy foods and replacing them with healthy nutrients. We are learning that when our bodies become toxic, our systems become extremely compromised. Impurities that are not properly eliminated, adversely affect every cell in our bodies.

So how can we apply this same principle to our spirit? Is it possible that our inner self can become toxic? If that is true, then it is time for Spiritual Detoxification or a Spiritual Detox. 

It is just as important that we empty our souls of spiritual toxins that have accumulated over time. Just as natural toxins prevent us from eliminating impurities, spiritual toxins can hinder the flow of the spirit. Even though we may emerge from negative situations with some level of success, quite often there are some residual effects. Frequently, we have not released the disappointment, the hurt, or the frustration; nor have we released the person who has caused the disappointment, the hurt or the frustration. Pain, resentment and bitterness of the past can erode our present as well as our future.

Failure to forgive is one of the weapons that the enemy uses to keep our spiritual, inner self toxic. The Bible conceptualizes forgiveness as “passing on to those who have sinned against us the same mercy that we ourselves received from God.” In other words, we must extend to others the same grace that we received from God.

Forgiveness is a major theme throughout the entire Bible. We see it in the story of Joseph and his brothers; David and Saul; and the Prodigal Son and his father. But more importantly, we see it demonstrated at Calvary when Jesus was hanging on the cross and with His dying breath said, “Father, forgive them for they know not what they do.”

Forgiveness begins with a decision. It is not predicated on whether or not the issues have been resolved, the relationship has been restored or the parties have reconciled. Forgiveness does not involve approval for what was done, the dismissal or explaining away of inappropriate behavior, or rescuing the offender from the consequences of wrong actions.

Forgiveness does not require that we remain in toxic relationships or that we leave the door open for further infractions. We can establish and maintain healthy boundaries even after forgiveness.

Forgiveness is for our benefit, propelling us into new opportunities and new relationships. We must not allow ourselves to carry resentment, hurt, anger or bitterness into new situations. Release it, and move on from here!

Joyce A. Graham is founder of Back to the Basics Ministries, www.bttb-ministries.org. You may contact her at joyceagraham@bttb-ministries.org.