The Forgiveness Revolution

What if I told you that you could be a part of a revolution that can radically rescue people from a life filled with torture? What if I told you the people you woul be setting free live all around you? Would you be interested?

I joined the Forgiveness Revolution when my wife and I made the 400-mile trek to my parent’s home to help with a bathroom remodel project. On our last morning there, we sat at the table after breakfast sipping coffee and tea while chatting with my dad. On this particular morning, Papa was kvetching about a couple of people. He wasn’t saying anything real mean, but his bitterness leaked out of his words. He couldn’t see it, but it was obvious to us.

I heard a voice inside my spirit say, “Speak into your father about forgiveness.” It was inaudible, but very clear. I immediately went into a high-speed debate in my head. It went something like this.

“Lord, You know he’s my dad, right?” 

“I know! I was there when both of you were born. Speak into his life!”

 “Well, if I knew it was really You, Lord, I would. How do I know it’s You?” 

“You know it’s Me. Quit stalling and speak into your dad’s heart! Now!”   

I know it may seem weird, but that’s how my conversations often go with God.

Swallowing hard, I then said, “Papa, it sounds to me like you are bitter at Dave and Jim. You’ve been friends with Dave for over fifty years. You’ve known Jim for over thirty-five years. Do you think it might be time to forgive and let them off the hook?”

What happened next was remarkable. Without any hesitation, my 76-year-old father said, “Son, I stand rebuked! You are right. I need to forgive and reconcile with both of them. Will you pray with me?” Tears welled up in his eyes as he knelt and repented of his unforgiveness and forgave his friends from his heart. We watched his countenance change as his spirit found peace. Papa was free!

There is no greater joy than helping someone find freedom through forgiveness. Join the Forgiveness Revolution and you’ll see.

PRAYER: Lord, please help me be more faithful when You prompt me to speak up, and walk out a life of forgiveness others can emulate.

“Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted,” Galatians 6:1 KJV.

Today’s devotional is by Bruce Hebel, Pastor of ReGen Fellowship in Tyrone, Georgia, Adjunct Professor at Carver Bible College, and President of ReGenerating Life Ministries. He is a graduate of Dallas Theological Seminary and has served in ministry for over 35 years.