There are people that you just really like to be around and there are people you do your best to avoid being around. What is the difference between these two very different people and why do you want to be around one and not the other? Is it all about their personality? Is it because one is an extrovert and the other is an introvert? While there are probably several factors you could point to, I believe that it boils down to one factor – being a grace giver. In other words, you are a person others like to be around because you are a loving, honest and sincere person. Being the life of the party does not guarantee people want to be around you, it could very well be the opposite.
You naturally are looking for the best in people regardless of who they are, their background, or their past. Everyone has good qualities that they want to be known for and recognized.
When you tell the person, “I will forgive you if…” that’s not forgiveness. You’re bargaining, not forgiving. Genuine forgiveness is unconditional. It’s offered even if it’s not asked for.
You need to understand that there’s a difference between being wronged and being wounded. Wounds are unintentional. Wrongs are intentional. You’re wounded all the time by people accidentally. Do people say things that hurt you that they didn’t mean to say? Sure. Do people do things that hurt you that they didn’t mean to do? Sure. Those do not require forgiveness. What they require is acceptance, recognizing that we live in a fallen world, an imperfect environment, people are going to hurt you many times unintentionally.
Am I quick to judge people on initial impressions?
Am I quick to criticize when people make a mistake?
Am I quick to write people off due to their persistent problems?
Do I give people a chance to change?
Do I attempt to rescue and restore or reject and restrain?
Can I see past the bad to do the best for people?
Are you someone people like to be around?
