The Power of Forgiveness – The Power of The Cross

Presented at Curwensville Alliance on 04/21/24 by Pastor Steve Shields.

The cross of Jesus offers us power to forgive those who have sinned against us.

Forgiveness is powerful. Forgiveness is a strategy for improved mental health. Both forgiving and receiving forgiveness improves mental health.

What does forgiveness mean? Forgiving is releasing someone from bondage. Forgiving another is the most God-like thing you can do! Choosing to forgive will cost you.

There is value in forgiveness. There is unrivaled relief in forgiveness. When you forgive another, it demonstrates to your own heart that the encounter you have with Jesus is real.

The pathway toward forgiveness is difficult.

Forgiveness acknowledges the reality of the debt. The act of forgiveness proclaims the significance of the loss. Admit the impact of the debt, but don’t overdramatize or under-dramatize the offense. Remember that forgiveness is not forgetting. Consider the forgiveness you have received from God as you walk the pathway toward forgiving. Trust God for the greater reward. Give it to God – it is His to repay.