How to Know if You've Forgiven Someone | Dave Nelson

FORGIVING WHAT YOU CAN’T FORGET | HOW TO KNOW IF YOU’VE
FORGIVEN SOMEONE
DAVE NELSON | OCTOBER 6, 2024

FORGIVENESS IS CHOOSING TO NOT RETALIATE.

FORGIVENESS DOES NOT MEAN:
1. FORGETTING

2. MINIMIZING WHAT HAPPENED

3. THERE AREN’T CONSEQUENCES

4. TRUSTING AGAIN

Only simpletons believe everything they’re told! The prudent carefully consider their steps.
Proverbs 14:15 (NLT)

5. THE RELATIONSHIP IS RESTORED


THE THREE STAGES OF FORGIVENESS:

STAGE 1: EMBRACING THE HUMANITY OF THE PERSON WHO HURT US.

HUMAN BEINGS ARE MADE IN THE IMAGE OF GOD.

HUMAN BEINGS ARE CORRUPTED BY GARBAGE.

I have discovered this principle of life-that when I want to do what is right, I inevitably do what is wrong.
Romans 7:21 (NLT)

WE FORGIVE PEOPLE FOR WHAT THEY DO, BUT NOT FOR WHO THEY ARE.

…forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.
Ephesians 4:32 (NLT)


STAGE 2: CHOOSING TO CANCEL WHATEVER DEBT IS OWED.


Then Peter came to him and asked, “Lord, how often should I forgive someone who sins against me? Seven times?”

No, not seven times,” Jesus replied, “but seventy times seven!”
Matthew 18:21-22 (NLT)

MATTHEW 18:23-35 - A Lesson on Forgiveness

“That’s what my heavenly Father will do to you if you refuse to forgive your brothers and sisters from your heart.”
MATTHEW 18:35 (NLT)

STAGE 3: DESIRING GOOD FOR THE PERSON WHO HURT US.

“But to you who are willing to listen, I say, love your enemies! Do good to those who hate you. Bless those who curse you. Pray for those who hurt you.”
Luke 6:27-28 (NLT)