Learning to ForgiveSample

WHAT IF IT’S US?

What if we are the ones who have offended? What does repentance look like when we are the ones seeking forgiveness?

WE HAVE BEEN FORGIVEN

Some people continue to feel guilt, shame, and regret even after doing all they should to repent and make restoration. Why do you think this might be?

If our feelings make it seem that God is far away, we can talk to God about this. We can ask him to help us experience the truth that he has forgiven us and has removed our sins from us as far as the east is from the west.

Sometimes we will need other people to help us with this process, like a chaplain, pastor, counselor, or a trusted friend. This process can take time and the roots of our struggle can be deep. Gradually, our feelings can change to match the truth that we know in our minds.

Remember the earlier activity about forgiving? Complete it again now that you have learned the biblical foundation and value of forgiving. Has your understanding of forgiveness been impacted by what you’ve learned? The answer key can be found at the end of today's reading.

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.

Reflect & Respond

Journal Exercise #3

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.

Read the following passages: 2 Corinthians 7:10, Proverbs 28:13, 1 John 1:9, James 5:16, Acts 26:20

Write some words of praise and thanksgiving to God, rehearsing what he has done for you. Thank him for his forgiveness. Allow your emotions time to catch up with what you know.

Is there anyone you have wronged? Can you seek forgiveness from them? Write their name and then make a plan to approach them.

WHAT’S NEXT

Look for the next study in this Never Alone series called "Coming Home." In this study, you will learn how to recognize the traumatic impact of separation and reintegration with family and friends. For more information on healing from trauma, especially in the military, check out our website: NeverAloneMilitary.org

Answer Key:

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