By Erin Miller for BounceBack.com
We've all been betrayed and wounded by someone we've loved and trusted at some point in our lives. Betrayal can happen in many different types of relationships: work, romantic, family, friend, and each situation is unique to the individual. But in order to pass the trial of rejection and betrayal the answer is always the same: you have to learn to forgive.
Life isn't just about being healthy, happy and wealthy. We need to experience difficult trials to make us disciplined, compassionate and overall stronger. We must face adversity to experience our destiny. Facing adversity is painful, especially experiencing betrayal. Being betrayed stings worse than a slap in the face, and if you pass the test you can move onto the next level. If you allow the root of bitterness to grow inside of you that energy can infect those around you.
Related: Why is Forgiving Someone Who Hurt You So Hard?
3 Tips to Help Pass the Test:
1. Turn Weakness Into Strength - Sometimes our biggest downfalls turn out to be our greatest blessings. It may be hard to see how this betrayal can turn out to be a blessing when you are right in the middle of the situation, but if you hold onto the promise that God can turn the situation around you give up the right to allow resentment to develop.
2. Don't Confuse Forgiveness with Reconciliation - At other times there are differences and conflicts that just can't be resolved. It doesn't make one more right than the other. It just simply means both individuals have differences of opinion and there is no solution. Learning to forgive isn't about getting the results you want. It's proving that you are big enough to forgive those who have betrayed you. Also, if you don't want to reconcile with the person who has wounded you, you shouldn't have to, and that doesn't mean you haven't forgiven them in your heart.
Related: Forgiveness: A Choice and a Gift For You
3. Take Your Time - If you're not ready to forgive yet, don't. It's better to be honest with how you are feeling then be disingenuous with your words. However, it is recommended to not let the bitterness eat you up for too long. It can be very destructive.
Have you ever been betrayed by a friend or loved one? How did you handle it? Have you bounced back and moved forward?
BounceBack.com helps people find happiness in the right relationship. If you've been through a breakup, divorce, or just haven't been able to find happiness in your love life, BounceBack is a place to tell your story, get community support and advice from experts, and find the confidence and strength you need to move forward. Check out our Facebook page.
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Bringing "Ex-y" Back: Is it a Good Idea to Date Your Ex?
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The 10 Worst Ways to Break Up With Someone
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