THE POWER OF LETTING GO By: Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture: Matthew 6:14-15 - "For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins."
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INTRODUCTION
Many people today live in the prison of rejection, bitterness, and unforgiveness. They feel trapped in a deep pit, believing there is no way out. This condition can be likened to "the hole," a place of extreme confinement where the mind and soul are tormented. However, God has provided a way out of this prison, a way that is contrary to human understanding. This way is through forgiveness and letting go.
Jesus Christ, during His time on earth, endured unimaginable pain, rejection, and cruelty. Yet, He chose to forgive and release all offenses against Him. His ability to forgive ensured that He remained in perfect unity with the Father, making His ascension into glory possible.
Today, we are called to follow His example. The power of letting go is the key to healing, restoration, and spiritual freedom. In this teaching, we will explore why forgiveness is essential, how Jesus demonstrated it, and how we, as believers, must embrace this divine principle to walk in victory.
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THE EXAMPLE OF JESUS CHRIST IN FORGIVENESS
Scripture: Luke 23:34 - "Jesus said, ‘Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.’"
Jesus Christ suffered betrayal, humiliation, and a painful death at the hands of sinners. Yet, while hanging on the cross, He chose to forgive. He did not hold onto bitterness, nor did He seek revenge. Instead, He prayed for His persecutors. This act of divine love teaches us that true forgiveness is an act of obedience to God.
Had Jesus chosen not to forgive, He would have carried the weight of resentment, preventing Him from ascending to the Father in righteousness. His ability to let go enabled Him to fulfill His mission and remain in perfect unity with the Father.
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WHY WE MUST LET GO
Scripture: Ephesians 4:31-32 - "Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you."
Holding onto bitterness and unforgiveness leads to spiritual stagnation. It hinders our prayers, blocks our blessings, and separates us from God's presence. Letting go is not just for the benefit of those who hurt us; it is primarily for our own healing and freedom. When we forgive, we break the chains of the past and step into the newness of life that God has for us.
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THE CONSEQUENCES OF UNFORGIVENESS
Scripture: Matthew 18:34-35 - "In anger his master handed him over to the jailers to be tortured, until he should pay back all he owed. This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother or sister from your heart."
Unforgiveness is a dangerous trap. It leads to emotional distress, physical illness, and spiritual bondage. It allows the enemy to gain a foothold in our lives, keeping us in cycles of pain and destruction. Those who refuse to forgive place themselves outside of God's grace and risk facing divine judgment.
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THE REWARD OF FORGIVENESS
Scripture: Colossians 3:13 - "Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you."
When we choose to forgive, we receive healing, peace, and restoration. God honors those who obey His command to forgive. He rewards them with His presence, His joy, and His abundant blessings. Letting go frees us to walk in our divine purpose without the weight of past hurts.
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SUMMARY
• Jesus demonstrated the power of forgiveness on the cross.
• Holding onto bitterness and unforgiveness hinders our spiritual growth.
• Forgiveness is a command from God, and it brings healing and restoration.
• Unforgiveness leads to spiritual and emotional torment.
• Choosing to forgive allows us to remain in God's presence and walk in victory.
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CONCLUSION
The act of letting go is not easy, but it is necessary. Jesus has shown us the way, and as His followers, we must walk in His footsteps. Forgiveness is the key to true freedom. It is the bridge between pain and healing, bondage and deliverance.
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CALL TO ACTION
Today, choose to let go of every hurt, every offense, and every wound from your past. Surrender it to God and allow Him to bring healing and restoration into your life. If there are people you need to forgive, do it now. Release them in your heart and ask God for the grace to move forward.
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FINAL WORD OF ENCOURAGEMENT
God has called and chosen you for a greater purpose. Do not let the pain of the past keep you from stepping into your destiny. As you forgive, you will experience a new level of joy, peace, and spiritual elevation. Trust in God's process, and He will lead you into a life of victory.
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SALVATION PRAYER
If you have not yet given your life to Jesus Christ, the greatest act of letting go is surrendering your heart to Him. Pray this prayer with sincerity:
"Lord Jesus, I acknowledge that I am a sinner in need of Your grace. I believe that You died for my sins and rose again for my salvation. Today, I choose to surrender my life to You. Forgive me, cleanse me, and make me a new creation. I receive You as my Lord and Savior. Thank You for saving me. Amen."
