does everyone deserve a second chance?

"does everyone deserve a second chance?"


I've read this question on surveys, been asked, heard conversations... and I always thought "no, not everyone".

how hypocritical.

I never realized how wrong that was until church today. it was all about pride and second chances. I mean, i know people screw up, and I always forgive them; holding grudges is for 5th graders. but I always said I would never give some people a second chance, like Jared, or Joel, and friends who betrayed me. and that's wrong. I mean you don't have to open yourself up and be vulnerable, and let people hurt you over and over and over again. That's not the point. but that doesnt mean you cant give another chance.

i have screwed up so many times. SO many times, with SO many different people. yet, I was given more chances. for example, with my mother. I screw up daily with her. im disrespectful, i dont do what im supposed to when im supposed to, etc. yet, every time, she gives me another chance and forgives me. another example, God. I have sinned innumerable times. turned my back, turned on Him, ignored Him, etc. Yet, He still loves me unconditionally and is 100% merciful.

and here I am. this kid hurt me, so im just gonna stop being friends with me. that girl lied to me, so im never gonna trust her again. he flirted with another girl, im never gonna date him again. seriously? i have done so much worse, and i keep getting more chances. not only 2nd chances, but 3rd, and 4th, 5th, 6th, etc. so why do i have the right to take chances away from other people?

i am no longer gonna shut down if someone screws up. i mean i always forgive them. but now its time to actually forgive and FORGET. if i deserve 2nd and 3rd and 4th chances, so does everyone else. maybe not to date, or let them get super close to you again. not if they hurt me really bad. but at least to the point where I give them a chance to change, or a chance to be my friend again. its only fair :]




Psalm 86:5 - For You, Lord, [are] good, and ready to forgive, And abundant in mercy to all those who call upon You.