When we hurt others we owe them a debt of apology and a repentant heart. We must make things right for the wrongs we have done to them. In such cases, it is healthy to ask for forgiveness. Let’s be clear: they don’t owe us forgiveness, however. This is a gift they chose to give or not to give. We simply do our part by making things right and then asking if they can forgive us. I’ve found in the vast majority of cases people respond very favorably to a vulnerable attitude and simple request.
Dr. David Hawkins, MBA, MSW, MA, PhD, is a Christian Clinical Psychologist and Director of the Marriage Recovery Center. He has helped bring healing to thousands of marriages and individuals and is passionate about working with couples in crisis. If you need help, please reach out to his Client Care Team at 206.219.0145 or through their website. Dr. Hawkins is also a speaker & trainer for the American Association of Christian Counselors and is a best-selling author of over thirty books including Never Fight Again, Gauranteed and When Loving Him is Hurting You. He has two grown sons, is happily married to Christie Hawkins, and lives on Bainbridge Island, outside Seattle, WA.