107 - The Spiritual Strength of Forgiveness
In this episode of Small Steps with God, we explore the transformative power of forgiveness through insights from R.T. Kendall’s book Total Forgiveness. We discuss the biblical foundation of forgiveness, personal struggles, and the spiritual healing that comes when we choose to release resentment. Whether it’s forgiving others, letting go of bitterness toward God, or praying for those who hurt us, this episode is a heartfelt reflection on how forgiveness is not just a command—but a path to emotional and spiritual freedom.
Top Topics Covered:
The True Nature of Forgiveness:
Forgiveness doesn’t mean excusing bad behavior or denying the hurt caused. It’s about freeing ourselves from the poison of resentment and choosing peace over vengeance.
Powerful Biblical Examples:
Stories like Joseph forgiving his brothers, David sparing Saul, and Jesus praying for his persecutors show the depth and strength of godly forgiveness. These accounts aren’t just ancient history—they’re roadmaps for our own lives.
Forgiveness as a Strength, Not a Weakness:
Contrary to popular belief, forgiving someone is an act of strength. It means refusing to let bitterness control your life. It’s about saying, “I forgive, and I’m finished with it.”
When Forgiveness Feels Impossible:
Sometimes we’re not emotionally ready. That’s okay. The journey can start with a simple prayer: “Lord, help my heart to catch up.” We explore how to begin even when the feelings aren’t there.
Radical Acts of Forgiveness in Modern Times:
From Corrie ten Boom to Martin Luther King Jr. and Professor Okumu in Kenya, we see how forgiveness can transcend personal pain and become a force for peace and justice.
Takeaways:
Forgiveness isn’t about the other person—it’s about your own healing. You don’t have to wait for an apology or perfect conditions. You can start now with prayer. Ask God for the willingness to forgive and for blessings for those who’ve wronged you. As you release others, you’ll find your own spirit becoming lighter. This episode challenges us to take that first small step—because in doing so, we choose freedom over bitterness, and grace over grudges.
Download blank templates, schedules here:
https://schmern2.notion.site/Downloads-Template-Word-and-Excel-Schedule-67439d14449d4c20bfe00efe069f78b8
Logos RAMPS Workflow - RAMPS Bible Study - The Bible in Small Steps in Logos Workflows
Jill’s Links
https://jillfromthenorthwoods.com/
https://www.youtube.com/@smallstepswithgod
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/smallstepspod
https://twitter.com/schmern
Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com
“Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. The ESV text may not be quoted in any publication made available to the public by a Creative Commons license. The ESV may not be translated in whole or in part into any other language.”
Scripture quotations marked CSB have been taken from the Christian Standard Bible®, Copyright © 2017 by Holman Bible Publishers. Used by permission. Christian Standard Bible® and CSB® are federally registered trademarks of Holman Bible Publishers.
“The Scriptures quoted are from the NET Bible® http://netbible.com copyright ©1996, 2019 used with permission from Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. All rights reserved”.
Bible Maps and images used with permission from https://www.bible.ca/maps/ or https://www.freebibleimages.org/illustrations/bj-ot-world/
Copyright 2014 Faithlife / Logos Bible Software. Free for non-commercial use by individuals or organizations. May be presented before live audiences; may be posted on social media; may be re-distributed. May not be used commercially. May not be modified or included in published works without permission; contact permissions@faithlife.com. Attribute as: “Copyright 2014 Faithlife / Logos Bible Software ()”.
By choosing to watch this video or listen to this podcast, you acknowledge that you are doing so of your own free will. The content shared here reflects personal experiences and opinions and is intended for informational and inspirational purposes only. I am not a licensed healthcare provider, psychiatrist, or counselor. Any advice or suggestions offered should not be considered a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice. You are solely responsible for any decisions or actions you take based on this content.
