Have you ever found it difficult to forgive? Do you know you should forgive but you just can't? Have you ever wondered to yourself, 'why is it important to forgive?' or 'what is unforgiveness doing to me?' or "is it really possible for me to forgive and get past this offense?' Have you ever convinced yourself that you are somehow punishing your offender by retaining the offense? Do you think that somehow forgiving someone is just letting them off the hook? You may not realize it but forgiveness is more important for what it does for you than what it does for your offender. Do you realize that your offender still has power over parts of your life until you forgive? The act of forgiveness can be and should be a simple act of the will. Once you know you should forgive, it could be just an immediate decision of the will. However for many it just isn’t that simple. Some people need to wrestle through this process in order to solidify it in their lives. It isn’t uncommon to find people who, after making a choice of their will to forgive, still find themselves wondering if they really did forgive since feelings of unforgiveness still linger. Others haven’t done the necessary follow-up work to rebuild their heart so that bitterness has no place to return. Based on a Christian frame work, the author leads the readers to the place of being willing to take the risk of releasing their offenders and learn to live in freedom. In the book the reader will see the necessity of forgiveness to release every offender in their life. To accomplish that objective the reader will first understand what forgiveness really means. There are too many misconceptions of what forgiveness really is and it requires clarification. When one really understands what they are doing when they forgive another, they might not be reluctant to forgive, or even struggle with the idea of it. The author then examines how one opens the door to bitterness and gives it a home in their heart. This subject is covered because it helps unravel the areas where we have entangled ourselves that have kept this door open. The book In conclusion, seeks to help create a heart where bitterness has a difficult time penetrating into it. Wouldn’t it be great to walk through life with a Teflon nonstick spiritual armor, where offenses slide off rather than stick as they are thrown at you daily? Building a heart that quickly resolves offenses is actually the most important aspect of this book. It is imperative that our hearts be ruled by a stronghold of compassion so we will react and see everyone – even our offenders – through the eyes of Jesus.
Excellent book on the definition of forgiveness. I learned a great deal about true forgiveness. This book is short - only 77 pages and I read it in a day. I will be revisiting this book regularly and adding to my already highlighted areas. True forgiveness is freeing and allows one to move on in life with a lot less pressure. Again, excellent book!
Great book on the topic of forgiveness. The author gives a definition of the word, forgiveness, near the beginning of the book. He also discusses a symptom of unforgiveness and the feelings associated with unforgiveness. Throughout the book, he uses his biblical perspective and shares scripture that not only explains more about forgiveness but also discusses the reasons for forgiving your offenders and their offense. He even gives an exercise towards the end of the book to help in the process. If you are having difficulty in forgiving people who have hurt you and/or offended you in your faith journey, I recommend this book to you.
One of those life-changing books. Highly recommend for anyone who has experienced trauma or know someone who has. There is one chapter where the author emphasizes how a lack of forgiveness can cause physical issues and while he isn’t necessarily wrong, it seemed a stretch at some points. He did say that while physical issues aren’t always spiritual, it is something we should consider and I agree with that 💯. All in all, HIGHLY recommend. Only 70-something pages but FILLED with Biblical truth. So while it’s a short read, it isn’t necessarily a quick one.
Where to start? This ebook has absolutely changed my life, and has become a part of me forever. Will be placed on my bookshelf within easy reach and will be referred to time and time again. So much truth in between the pages about forgiveness. The ' why ' and the ' how '. Anyone who spends time reading this will not be disappointed. Very highly recommended.
The author gives you a firm Godly perspective on why it's important to forgive in order to move forward. I appreciate the acknowledgement that its not easy, and provides beginning step for the process. You will begin to see the freedom head. The freedom you deserve!
As a pastor I have read many books and listened to many teachings on forgiveness. in my opinion, Rodney Hogue has done a fantastic job. The reason is he takes us beyond forgiveness to the place of rebuilding compassion for others.
The content of this book is the core of being able to love others as we love ourselves and gives you the freedom to live life as you never experienced before!
An unparalleled and enormously practical study in the nature and necessity of forgiveness in the Christian life. If you can have one book on forgiveness, this should be that book.
Very good and important theology/philosophy of forgiveness. Some points felt a little over-repeated but I can understand how it’s helpful for someone really new to these ideas.
JANUARY 31, 2015 / As you can see below, I have read this book before. My opinion has not changed with this second read other than I was able to get more out of it. After reading, My One Word: Change Your Life With Just One Word, my One Word for 2015, is Forgiveness. This is why I re-read the book.
OCTOBER 28, 2012 / One of the most complete books on forgiveness that I have read. It doesn't just stop at you should forgive and how to fogive but it actually lets you know what happens afterwards. A recommended read to anyone who has anyone to forgive, including themselves.
I have read a number of good books on forgiveness but this one resonated deeply within. It clarifies and simplifies the message of the gospel on forgiveness and gently allows you to apply these truths to your life. The book is written simply with scriptural and anecdotal references. If you struggle with forgiveness issues ( I'm not sure who doesn't) this book can be a life changer.
The author speaks so any man or woman can understand the message, lays out the path any willing person can walk, and clearly presents the costs and benefits of extending or withholding forgiveness. This concise book can change a life, maybe yours.