February 5, 2023 - Forgive And Be Set Free

What is forgiveness?
"Aphiemi" = to send away, dismiss

What if I don't forgive?
"Unforgiveness imprisons, keeps pain alive, produces a bitter heart, opens the door to demonic oppression, hinders our fellowship with God.
(Matthew 16:14-15) - John MacArthur

Roadblocks to forgiveness: (Chuck Swindoll - "Counseling Insights")
1) To desire to take revenge, to pay back. A common flesh response - the deserve it!! - Romans 12:21
2) The fear that forgiveness somehow communicates approval - it does not!

Forgiveness vs Reconciliaton:

Forgiveness does not mean that the relationship is restored to normal

Reconciliation only occurs when there has been genuine repentance, with proven, ongoing change in behavior

This may take a considerable amount of time; this may or may not happen

God's desire is restored, healthy relationships!

Satan's desire is destroyed relationships

Reconciliation is God's miracle!!

"Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." - Philippians 3:13-14 (NIV)

No one ever said forgiveness is easy; it may be the most difficult thing you ever do!

Corrie ten Boom had to learn to forgive to be used by God

"To Forgive is to set a prisoner free and to discover the prisoner was you." - Corrie ten Boom

FORGIVENESS IS OF THE HEART

FORGIVE AND BE SET FREE

THIS IS THE JESUS WAY!