Learning to ForgiveSýnishorn

FORGIVENESS HEALS THE BROKEN

Forgiveness is that powerful. Accepting God’s forgiveness and then, in turn, learning to forgive is a major step to healing from trauma and suffering.

In this study, you will reflect on:

• What is forgiveness
• Why we forgive
• How forgiving leads to healing

Listen to Ken’s story below to hear an example of the power of forgiveness.

WHAT IS FORGIVENESS?

Read the list below and sort each one into the two categories, starting each sentence with "Forgiveness is..." or "Forgiveness is not..." creating a specific definition of forgiveness. After reviewing the list, check the answer key at the end of today's reading and notice if anything surprises you or is different than what you thought.

Choose the best start to each sentence: "Forgiveness is..." or "Forgiveness is not..."

1. Acting like the offense never happened or saying it did not hurt.
2. Separate from trusting the offender again.
3. Letting the offender face the consequences of their actions.
4. Letting offenders get away without facing any consequences of their actions.
5. The same as reconciliation.
6. A precondition for reconciliation.
7. A process.
8. Dependent on the offenders apologizing first.
9. Done instantly.
10. Trusting the offender again right away and allowing them to hurt us again.
11. Being honest about the pain.
12. Releasing the offender to God without waiting for them to apologize.

FORGIVENESS CAN BE COMPLEX

Many people say forgive and forget. But is that possible? Is that biblical? What happens when trust is broken? What happens if justice still needs to be met? What does forgiveness look like in these complicated situations? Watch the video below to help answer these questions.

MATEO’S STORY

Why should we forgive other people? How can it help in our healing? Listen to Mateo’s story and try to determine how forgiving can help him heal.

Reflect & Respond

Optional Tip: Journaling your responses to the scripture and follow up questions can help you process what you're learning and see your progress towards healing over time.

Reflect on Mateo’s story. Have you felt the type of rejection and pain that Mateo experienced? What was your initial reaction and response? Read the following verses and reflect on what Jesus had to say about forgiveness.

Matthew 6:14-15, Matthew 18:21-22, Mark 11:25

How can you relate to Mateo? Let’s hear the ending of his story.

Answer Key:

Forgiveness is: 2, 3, 6, 7, 11, 12 Forgiveness is not: 1, 4, 5, 8, 9, 10