There are things in life that hold us back, things that keep us trapped. Things like betrayal and bitterness. So, what do we do? How do you break free? In this 4-part series, we'll learn from the life of Joseph in the Bible how to deal with a raw deal and experience the freedom God desires for us.
Moving Out of A Place of Bitterness
Genesis 45; 50:20
“I am your brother Joseph, the one you sold into Egypt! And now, do not be distressed and do not be angry with yourselves for selling me here, because it was to save lives that God sent me ahead of you.” Genesis 45:4-5
You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.” Genesis 50:20
3 Steps to Forgiving Others:
1. “I RELEASE my right to RETALIATE.”
See to it that no one falls short of the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many.” Hebrews 12:15
2. “I will do my part to RESTORE the RELATIONSHIP.”
Forgiveness is immediate, reconciliation takes time.
Do not repay anyone evil for evil...On the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. Romans 12:17, 20-21
3. “I acknowledge the SOVEREIGNTY of God in all circumstances.”
“Holding a grudge doesn’t make you strong. It makes you bitter. Forgiveness doesn’t make you weak. It sets you free.”