Forgiving What You Can't Forget
Lysa TerKeurst
Sermon Highlights
“Forgiveness is an absolute command by God, and it is my choice.”
“When someone hurts us, it may have been life-altering, but it doesn’t have to be life-ruining.”
“Forgiveness is a gift from God — a provision from God for our healing.”
“The best time to forgive is before we are ever offended. The next best time is right now.”
“Out of obedience to God I choose to forgive. Whatever my feelings will not yet allow for, the blood of Jesus will surely cover it.”
“This is forgiveness: making the decision that the ones who hurt you no longer get to limit you."
Scriptures
Matthew 6:9-13 - The Lord’s prayer emphasizes forgiveness.
Genesis 4:2-7 - God speaks to Cain.
Ephesians 4:26-27 I Ephesians 4:29-32 - In your anger do not sin.
Galatians 6:7-8 - Don’t become weary in doing good.
Esther 7:10 - Haman is killed on the gallows he intended for the Jewish people.
Romans 12:19-21 - Overcome evil with good.
Sermon Discussion
Conversation Starter
Lysa mentioned the Whack-A-Mole arcade game. What arcade games are your favorites?
Sermon Reflection
What part of the sermon was just for you?
Discussion Questions
“Forgiveness is a gift from God — a provision from God for our healing.” When have you experienced forgiveness bringing healing in your life?
“The best time to forgive is before we are ever offended. The next best time is right now.” Where do you need to start choosing forgiveness, even though your feelings aren't allowing it?
Additional Questions
“This is forgiveness: making the decision that the ones who hurt you no longer get to limit you." Are there any areas of your life where you have allowed unforgiveness to limit you?
“Out of obedience to God I choose to forgive.” When have you seen choosing forgiveness, as an expression of faith, impact someone else?
Prayer Prompt
Ask this question to your eGroup and include it as part of your closing prayer:
Lysa taught us, “Forgiveness is a gift from God — a provision from God for our healing.”
Think about a situation where you might be holding onto unforgiveness. How does Lysa’s message challenge you to choose forgiveness today?
Ask God to help each one see forgiveness not as a gift to the one who hurt us, but as a gift to ourselves, a release from the burden we carry. Pray for the group to be granted strength and courage to choose forgiveness, even when it feels difficult. Ask God to fill everyone with His love and grace so that they can extend the same grace He has shown them. Pray for the group to be empowered to move forward in freedom and experience the healing God offers.