How many of us have been hurt badly by someone else? Sometimes it seems impossible to get over, doesn’t it? I’d like to share a personal message that I recently preached at my church on this very subject. The message consists of personal examples from my life and things I have learned over the years from the Word of God, along with three of my favorite authors and speakers; Jerry Cook, John Bevere and Beth Moore.

SCRIPTURE FROM THE MESSAGE

Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother when he sins against me? Up to seven times?” Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times. Matthew 18:21-22

If you forgive anyone, I also forgive him. And what I have forgiven — if there was anything to forgive — I have forgiven in the sight of Christ for your sake, in order that Satan might not outwit us. For we are not unaware of his schemes. 2 Corinthians 2:11-12

Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. Ephesians 4:32

For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.  But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins. Matthew 6:14-15

A brother offended is harder to win than a strong city. Proverbs 18:19

Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold. Matthew 24:12

“Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” Luke 23:24

Books I have read over the years that inspired this message:

The Bait of Satan by John Bevere
Get Out of that Pit by Beth Moore
Love, Acceptance and Forgiveness by Jerry Cook