Hello everyone! In this episode, we delve into the deep and often challenging topic of forgiveness, particularly when it feels too painful to even consider. We explore the idea of unforgiveness as a "Certificate of Offense," a metaphorical document that binds us in a covenant relationship with our hurt and resentment. Just as a marriage certificate symbolizes a profound and intimate bond, this certificate of offense represents the intimate connection we form with unforgiveness, granting it authority over our souls. Key Points Covered: - Understanding Covenant Agreements: - In biblical terms, a covenant is a solemn agreement between God and humanity, establishing the foundation of a relationship, its conditions, and the consequences of not fulfilling those conditions. - Similarly, unforgiveness forms a covenant with our hearts, giving it the power to influence and affect us deeply. - The Effects of Unforgiveness: - Unforgiveness acts as a wall that can hinder your spiritual journey and calling, much like a marathon runner with a sprained ankle. While you may still move forward, it is painful, slow, and far less effective. - This relationship with unforgiveness also brings bitterness into our lives, the only source of sustenance behind the wall we build. Bitterness, in turn, further poisons our spirit and distances us from healing and peace. - Dispelling Misconceptions About Forgiveness: - Forgiveness is not trust: You can choose to forgive someone without restoring trust immediately. - Reconciliation is not trust: Reconciliation and trust are distinct; one can occur without the other. - Forgiveness does not mean friendship: The Bible does not mandate maintaining friendships with those who have hurt us. - Forgiveness does not mean their repentance: Forgiveness is about relinquishing your right to seek vengeance, not about the offender’s repentance. - The True Meaning of Forgiveness: - Forgiveness is about handing over your pain and the right to retribution to God. It’s not about forgetting or excusing the offense, but about releasing yourself from the chains of bitterness and letting God take over the burden. Call to Action: If you’re struggling with unforgiveness, consider taking a moment to reflect on how it might be affecting your life and spiritual journey. Join us as we discuss ways to bring your "Certificate of Offense" to the footstool of God, and find freedom in true forgiveness. Forgiveness may feel impossible, especially when the wounds are deep, but it’s a journey worth taking. Remember, forgiveness is a choice—a choice to trust God with your pain and to allow Him to heal your heart. Blessings, Dana RESOURCES IN TODAY’S EPISODE: Lysa Terkeurst’s, Founder of Proverbs 31 Ministries website: https://lysaterkeurst.com/about-lysa/ Ephesians 4:31-32 “Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice. And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God I Christ forgave you. Colossians 3:13 "Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you." Matthew 6:14-15 "For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins." Mark 11:25 "And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins." Deut 32:35: Vengeance is mine. I will repay, says the Lord. 2 Thess 1:6 God is just: He will pay back trouble to those who trouble you. Rom 12:19 Do not take revenge, but leave room for God’s wrath for it is written “it is mine to avenge. I will repay, says the Lord. Join Us: Subscribe to the Rise & Reclaim After Divorce Podcast to continue your journey of healing and restoration. New episodes are released weekly, providing you with the encouragement and support you need. Links & More Resources: Connect with Us: - Website: www.redeemed-identity.com. You can sign up for my monthly newsletter here. - Podcast: Rise & Reclaim After Divorce Podcast (https://www.riseandreclaimpodcast.com) Find me on Social Media: https://www.facebook.com/redeemidentity/ https://www.instagram.com/redeemidentity My Free ebook, "Who Am I After Divorce?" can be downloaded here: https://dl.bookfunnel.com/4k769kpebf Website and Blog link: https://redeemed-identity.com/blog/ Tags: #DivorcedChristian #Healing #Faith#RiseAndReclaim #PrayingGodsWord #SpiritualGrowth
