The Power of Forgiveness with Christian Speaker, Deborah Ross

www.DeborahRossMinistries.org

Popular Quotes by Deborah Ross

FORGIVENESS is a PROCESS that begins with a DECISION.

It's better to die in FAITH than to live in fear, doubt and unbelief.

It's better to die while believing to be healed, than to live while believing to die.

God wants YOUR FAMILY whole!

God wants YOU whole!

God is FOR your marriage!

Somebody must go FIRST.

Obedience to God's Word creates fertile ground for a miracle!

God hates divorce because divorce hurts people.  He does NOT hate divorced people.

In marriage, there are no "what if's"; there is only "what is."

A pattern of dissatisfaction is probably a result of bad choices.  Change your thinking and change your direction.  Follow Him.

The little choices we make each day either fertilize our God-given destiny or breed road blocks, dead ends and detours in our journey.

Church: Do we go to be seen of people; or, do we go to see God?

When you fall in love with Jesus, your spouse will notice.

Broken people do broken things.

Sinners sin.  That's all they know.

It's better to reach for the stars and only make it to the moon, than to never leave earth.
(Vision, Purpose, Destiny)

The little choices we make each day make up the sum total of our life as it is right now.

Life is about CHOICES.

We aren't set free from the bondage of sin only to become entangled with religion.

  

Forgiveness: How to Overcome Bitterness

WOMAN2WOMAN: THE NAOMI & RUTH EXPERIENCE

LESSON FIVE

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28 LESSONS

Forgiveness / Overcoming Bitterness

BIBLE TRUTH

Only forgiveness will heal the internal wounds of the mind, will and emotions.  Forgiveness is the key that unlocks the door and releases all forms of hurt (emotional pain that follows a grievous event).  On the other hand, bitterness is the poison that keeps an offense alive in our hearts and minds.  Bitterness uses the voice of torment to continually remind us of our injury.    

Romans 12:21 says, “Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.”  We are overcome with evil when we don't forgive, because Satan uses unforgiveness to grow his kingdom of hatred in the hearts and lives of humanity.  The devil's desire is for us to return evil thoughts for evil deeds.  He knows that by creating painful offenses in our lives he can cause us to hold resentment toward others.  He knows that the unforgiving poison of resentment will keep the goodness of God's kingdom from working in, and through, our lives.  Unforgiveness gives Satan the victory as bitterness grows into anger, wrath, hatred, revenge, violence and even murder (either through our thoughts and words, or, by our actual deeds). 

When we choose to forgive a perpetrator from biting words, rejection, abuse, or even physical harm, we have overcome that evil with good.  God’s wisdom surpasses our understanding as His grace gives us the ability to forgive even the most heinous of crimes.  Not only does forgiveness release us from the invisible prison of pain and torment, but it also releases God’s love to heal our wounds.

Take a moment and read Matthew 18:15-35, which is all about forgiving. One important principle is in verse 18.  Did you know that you can bind unforgiveness and loose forgiveness in your heart and soul?  Discuss.

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Ps 133:1 Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!

A DEEPER LOOK

In Hebrews 12:16-17, we are reminded of Esau despising his birthright.  Our birthright into God’s kingdom is a gift based on the forgiveness given to us through the blood of Jesus Christ. 

Esau sold his birthright for some meat (obviously, he didn’t value it).  God requires that we forgive others as we have been forgiven by Him for our sins (Matthew 6:12) - this is how God’s kingdom works.  He gives to us, and we give to others.  It is a dangerous thing to devalue our birthright by not forgiving others.  Just as Esau sold his birthright, we can sell ours for bitterness.  The act of forgiveness is an extension of our birthright.

If there is still hurt attached to the memory of an offensive event in our lives, then forgiveness is not complete.  God’s completed work of forgiveness will enable us to remember the wrongdoing, but we will not suffer from the painful effects of someone else's actions any longer. 

Remember, forgiveness does not mean that we submit to further abuse from that same source.  We can forgive people who have mistreated us, and at the same time not tolerate their victimization any longer. 

Recognize and make a list of the hurts you have experienced. 

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Mark 11:26

But if ye do not forgive, neither will your Father which is in heaven forgive your trespasses. 

WORKING IN YOUR LIFE

• Forgiveness from the heart is the only kind of forgiveness that works.  Forgiveness from the heart is not an intellectual forgiveness, nor is it the result of someone trying to be super-spiritual; instead, forgiveness is an attitude that emulates Jesus. 

• Forgiveness is not an emotion, but an act of will.  If you wait for an emotion, you won’t forgive because unforgiveness is already present and at work in your heart, mind and body.

• Learning to separate the person from the sin makes it possible to forgive people who have done evil things.  You can hate evil and that is a very good thing (Proverbs 8:13), but you can’t hate the person.  Jesus was able to forgive those that murdered him.  He was able to separate sin from the person, “Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.”   As Christians, we are born-again into the same Spirit (1 Peter 1:22-23) so we can also respond in the same manner as Jesus. 

• Forgiveness is something we need to do every day.  Take an inventory of each day, and make those hurts, whether big or small, inconsequential with forgiveness.  When we fail by returning evil for evil, we must quickly repent so that we can move ahead.  Forgiving quickly will protect us, by not giving place to the devil in our lives (Ephesians 4:26-27).

• God is so much bigger than the evil done to us; so, we can trust Him with all hurtful events.  Evil is never right, but God is the avenger.

Read Luke 6:31-36.  What is God saying?

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Do you think you can forgive?  If not, why?

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REAL LIFE EXAMPLE

What does bitterness do?  It avoids people, turns stomachs, causes mental and emotional pain, causes piercing hostility, builds invisible walls, causes paralyzing thoughts and it can even make someone physically sick and/or terminally ill.  Manifestations of bitterness might be seen in self-doubt, sarcasm, a hardened face, a gruff voice, foul language, rebellion, negativity, addictions, spitting, hitting, withdrawal from society, hoarding, and/or sexual promiscuity.  Perhaps you've witnessed the bitterness of someone else.  If so, what you saw was their bitterness defiling them. 

One example of the manifestation of bitterness in the Old Testament is the story of Joseph and his brothers.  Their dislike was so great that they were going to kill him, but instead, ended up selling him into slavery.  Bitterness separates us from God, separates us from others and even separates us from ourselves.  Unchecked bitterness will result in destroyed relationships. 

Has anyone else's bitterness ever affected you?  Explain. 

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Would you be willing to confess that you hate bitterness and what it does to mankind?  Will you ask God to take all bitterness from you? 

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Will you take responsibility and name any sinful responses of bitterness that you have had?

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MAKING IT HAPPEN!

1.   When we fail to read and understand God's word, painful offenses can even cause us to develop bitterness toward God.   Harboring lying thoughts such as; "God has forgotten me" or, “God has caused this to happen to me" can play into the devil's evil device of luring us away from the only One who can truly save and heal us from our torment.  Scripture tells us plainly that the devil is the one who wants to kill, steal and destroy and that Jesus is the one who gives us life more abundantly (John 10:10).  God is love (1 John 4:16).  Repent to God now for any bitterness you may have toward Him.

2.   Forgive yourself if you hold regret, shame and guilt.  With repentance, God not only forgives, but also cleanses us from all unrighteousness.  It is sinful to not forgive ourselves when Holy God has already forgiven us.

3.   Forgive others for the pain they have caused you.  Take the list you made of "hurtful events" and repent to God for any bitterness you have toward others.  Tell God you forgive and release each person of the debt of sin that was committed against you.

4.   Ask others for forgiveness.  If you have caused pain, offended or defiled someone else, you may need to go to that person and tell them that you are sorry for your actions.  Make this easy and don’t replay the "hurtful event" as that could stir up anger.  Simply say, "I have had bitterness towards you, and I am sorry.  Please forgive me."

1 John 1:9

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

Romans 12:2

And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

HOMEWORK

Our homework is the ongoing process of walking out of bitterness and changing our ways of thinking to the mind of Christ.  We do this by holding every thought captive and rejecting those thoughts that don’t line up with the Word of God (2 Corinthians 10:5).  This is an ongoing effort, so be kind and patient with yourself.  God is thrilled that you are learning about your birthright!

Ask God to give you His love for all people and then practice making statements of faith that declare where you want to go in your forgiveness journey.  Remember, forgiveness is a process that begins with a decision.  Although difficult to feel, initially, forgiveness is where your heart is pointed and complete healing will be the end result of God's forgiving grace. 

NAOMI & RUTH REFLECTION 

Initially, Naomi blamed God for her problems.  We know in the whole council of the Word of God that the Lord does not bring us evil; He sent His Son to destroy it.  There is hope for all of us as we see Naomi work through her "‘hurtful events" as she returned to her home and to her God.  The reward for her obedience was restoration of her life.  This is also available to you.

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***This lesson was contributed by Marlene Bussert.  The Woman2Woman: Naomi & Ruth Experience Bible Study is a joint project between Deborah Ross Ministries and Safer Communities Ministry.  Many teachers and ministers of the gospel from across the USA have contributed lessons contained in this study. Deborah Ross is the main contributor and the chief editor of this project.  

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About this Study

The Woman2Woman: Naomi & Ruth Experience Bible study uses the example of the relationship between Naomi and Ruth as a model for women who desire to participate in a discipleship program to the glory of God.  It is specifically designed for use in a mentoring setting that takes place once per week whereby a more mature Christian woman makes a commitment to serve as the mentor in a Bible study relationship with another woman who is newer (less knowledgeable) in the faith.  By sharing and discussing one study topic at each meeting, the hearts of both women involved will be transformed as God in their midst speaks to each of them through His Word (Matthew 18:20).

In addition to cultivating a new believer’s knowledge of the Word, this in-depth study guide is a great resource that can be used to minister help and healing from:  a broken heart; shattered relationships; addictions; prison/jail time; a life of dysfunction; abandonment; mental, physical or sexual abuse; depression; and beyond.  This material is also designed to bring healing to extended female family members of those suffering, as well. 

Realizing that there are many potential mentors who really want God to use them in a powerful way, this material has been designed to ease the apprehension that may cause the willing leader to feel inadequate.  Like Naomi, you don’t have to be perfect (free from struggles) in order to mentor and disciple another woman.  You just need to be following the Lord in honest, scriptural ways and you’ll need to make yourself available to love another person by sharing what you do know about the Lord at this time in your life.  

28 LESSONS!

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Sorry... Seems to be the Hardest Word

"I'm sorry!" - Two of the most powerful words we could ever speak to each other; yet, for many, uttering these simple, two little words is virtually impossible. Why is this? Perhaps pride, self preservation, justification or even neglect play a part in our "reasons" for avoiding these freeing words.

Though these words have the potential to change the course of our lives - to the glory of God - in a profound way, so often we become paralyzed by the lie of the enemy, thinking that we somehow give permission for the offense when we forgive. It's like we have an invisible muzzle on our mouth that restricts us from saying what we know is needed to restore relationships and, more importantly, to restore our relationship with our heavenly Father.

Ever since the Garden of Eden, Satan has been busy at work, trying to create division between mankind. He knows that strife and unforgiveness open the door to a long list of hardships, really curses, that we bring upon ourselves as we refuse to humble ourselves to break these barriers by simply saying, "I'm sorry." Instead, we often create prisons in our own mind that hinder us from the good plans that God has for us. The master deceiver knows that if he can just get us to either offend someone or get us offended by the actions or words of another, he can slither his way into the depths of our soul (our mind, will and emotions), causing us to sin against God.

Unforgiveness is sin! It can lead us down the haunted road of bitterness, resentment, anger, rage and, ultimately, retaliation if not purged through humility and forgiveness. This path of self destruction brings further guilt and separation from the goodness of the Lord, while causing a whole new set of problems in our lives.

The Word of God is very clear about the importance of an apology. Mark 11:25-26 says, we should not even begin to pray to the Lord until we have forgiven those who have offended us. This passage goes on to say that we must forgive others... if we expect God to forgive us! Then again, in Matthew 5:23-24, Jesus says we should go and make things right with our brother (or sister) before we take our offering to the Lord. Clearly, God has no respect for offerings that we give out of a desire to make ourselves "feel" better. Trying to hide, or cover up, our unforgiving, true spirit from the Lord is futile. Our offerings to Him should go forth with no shame. We should give to Him out of a clean heart.

Albeit difficult, deep in our conscious we each know it is our job to be the first to say I'm sorry whenever we have offended someone. But, what do we do when the tables are turned, and someone has offended us? Our actions should ultimately be the same, whether the offense is created by someone else or by us. As a Child of the King, we should have a deep desire to keep our hearts clean by letting go of those things that were sent by the devil to destroy us. Granted, the person who offended us may not even know that they did so; still, we need to be quick to bring things out into the open in a loving way and then simply say, "I'm sorry."

It doesn't always seem fair. Certainly, it doesn't seem natural. But, one thing is for sure, everything in God's Kingdom is hinged on LOVE. Our job is to walk in love. His job is to bring freedom, restoration, and favor to our lives as we obey His word by "doing" His will. The scriptures say that "obedience is better than sacrifice." Learning to be obedient by simply learning the art of a humble apology is of great price in the Lord's eye's.

Now, there are those who will say, "I'm sorry, but _______." Friend, that is not a godly apology. What you are really saying is, "I'm trying to obey God by apologizing to you, but I really don't forgive you and I really don't feel that I should have to apologize to you." You are probably thinking to yourself, "So what is wrong with that? I can't help the way I feel. Right?"

Perhaps, that is the way you feel at the present time. But, as you "choose" to freely forgive without any attachments, you are cutting the chains that bind you to a life of bitterness. You are leaving the response up to the other person and therefore releasing yourself of all of the responsibility of that sin. What they choose to do with your apology is between them and God. You are placing the ball in their court and raising your hands in worship to the King of Glory! Your feelings will line up with your actions once you determine to do what is commanded in God's word.

It sounds crazy, I know, but God's principles are pretty radical. Supernatural things happen when we follow His directions for our lives. He makes crooked things - straight. He makes closed doors - open. He makes depression - turn to joy. He gives LIFE! All we have to do is trust Him... and "do" what He says.

One other scenario I'd like to address in this article concerning an apology is this: Saying I'm sorry does not necessarily mean you need to hang around that person. You can forgive someone and make peace with them, yet, let them go. This is not God's ultimate desire, but sometimes it is necessary in order for you to live your life free from future offenses and free from further conflicts. In every apology, try to bring with it restoration; but, if that is impossible, walk in freedom knowing that you have released all negative thoughts and emotions concerning your relationship with that person. Decide to love them in spite your differences. Pray for their well being.

"I'm sorry!" - Two words that seem harder to birth than a 20 pound baby. Yet, these powerful two words can - and will - change the course of your life, bring favor, and set you free to LIVE a life abundant in Christ Jesus! Now, go... forgive, and be blessed!

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Deborah Ross is an international evangelist, speaker, author, singer and choreographer. She is the mother of two teen-aged sons and the wife of Jay Ross since 1984. Her new book, Healing a Broken Marriage, is available now through bookstores and on-line. Deborah Ross is available for speaking engagements and can be contacted through her website at www.DeborahRossMinistries.org.

How to be Born Again

How to be Forgiven & Born Again

JOHN 3:3

"Jesus answered and said unto him, 'Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.'"

The Word of God teaches that unless we are "born-again" we cannot see the Kingdom of God.
This means:

· We cannot "live" in the Kingdom of God;
· We cannot "receive the benefits" of the Kingdom of God;
· We cannot "understand" the Kingdom of God;
· And, we cannot have "eternal life" in God's Kingdom;

... Until we become a born-again Child of God.

Being born-again is a supernatural experience that is - in some ways - much like that of being born from our mother's womb. The difference, of course, is that we are not physically born-again, but rather, spiritually transformed in our spirit man. When we were born from our mother's womb, we did not need to understand the process before we could enter this world. Yet, since the day of our natural birth, we have been continually growing in our understanding so that as adults we can begin to comprehend the miraculous wonder of conception, pregnancy and the childbirth existence.

Being born-again is no different. We don't need to fully understand the concept in order to become a Child of God. We simply believe in faith on the price that Jesus paid for our sins; and then, supernaturally, God plants His seed of righteousness inside of our hearts. That seed will grow throughout our lifetime as we gain a greater understanding of our born-again transformation. From that day forward we will be ever-maturing from that of a new born babe in Christ into a sanctified Child of God.

JOHN 3:16

"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."

God's Word promises eternal life to everyone who confesses with their mouth and believes in their heart that Jesus is Lord (Romans 10:10). Being a born-again Child of God is really simple, and yet, many will fail to understand how to become a Christian because of their unwillingness to turn from a life of sin. Sin separates mankind from God. God is holy and He cannot co-exist with sin. As hard as we may try, we can never completely rid ourselves of sin in order to walk in the favor of God. In fact, everything about our human nature pulls away from God. Romans 8:7 says that we are incapable of following God's laws because our human nature is hostile toward the truth of God's Word.

JOHN 3:21

"But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God."

It is only when we allow the light of God to shine down on our hearts that we can see the truth about our sinful condition. Stepping into the light of God requires that we humbly come to the throne of grace with a true heart of repentance from all known sin. Repentance is not just saying "I'm sorry", neither does it try to justify thoughts and deeds with rational explanations of "why". Rather, repentance is a change of our heart and mind. When we repent, we admit our wrong doing or wrong thoughts while standing spiritually naked before God.

In order to be supernaturally transformed (born-again) we must first recognize that we are a sinner who needs a Savior. As God shines His light of truth (His Word) upon our hearts, our response should be a sincere cry of relinquishing our will to His. At that same moment, as we put all of our trust in the belief that Jesus is, indeed, the Son of God, and that He died for our sins; the breath of God blows the wind of the Holy Spirit into our innermost being as we are gloriously changed from a sinner to a saint. We don't have to fully understand it all. We just need to accept, by faith, that God loves us so much that He sent His Son, Jesus, into the world to make a way for us to live in His Kingdom... now and for all eternity.

MARK 11:26

"But if ye do not forgive, neither will your Father which is in heaven forgive your trespasses."

Realize that repentance and being forgiven by God are synonymous with forgiving others. After all, how can we expect God to forgive our sins, if we are not also willing to forgive those who have sinned against us? 1 John 3:15 tells us that if we hate someone, we are a murderer and we should know that murderers do not have eternal life abiding within their hearts.

1 JOHN 4:7-8

"Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love."

In order to truly know God, we must be willing to lay down all grudges, bitterness, wrath, jealousy, malice, envy, strife, and revenge. God is love. If we are to be a born-again Child of God, we too, must agree to love the way Christ loves us. God loves us so much that He sent Jesus to die for our sins even when we didn't deserve salvation. Is there someone who doesn't deserve your forgiveness? Yet, in order to be more like Christ, you will purpose in your heart to forgive them.

JOHN 3:18-19

"He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil."

I think John 3:19 explains the reason that Jesus is such a stumbling block for those who don't want to believe He is the Son of God. So many religions accept that Jesus was a prophet or that He was a good man and they may even go as far as to say that He was born of a virgin and that He even died on a cross; however, in an effort to hide from the truth of one's sinful heart, many choose to follow a lie - a false religion - in an effort to make themselves feel as though they will have eternal life... IN SPITE OF THEIR LOVE FOR SIN.

God is love. God loves people. God is Holy. God hates sin. He has made a way for us to be reconciled to Himself. He sent His love, in the form of a man named Jesus, into the world to touch, heal, and save those who will sincerely believe that He is the Christ.

GALATIANS 2:20

"I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me."

Jesus gave His life for you and I. Will you give your life back to Him and accept His outstretched hand of mercy, grace, and love? God does not want anyone to spend an eternity in hell (separated from His love). He wants everyone to live with Him forever!

If you want to accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior... If you want to be born-again... If you want to be forgiven... Pray this simple prayer with all of your heart:

"Father God, I confess that I am a sinner in need of a Savior. I believe, in faith, that Jesus is truly the Son of God, and while I may not understand everything right now, I do believe that Jesus was born of a virgin, He walked the earth as God in the flesh, He died on a cross, and He was raised from the dead by the power of God. I believe that you, Lord, love me so much that you made a way for me to have eternal life. I confess _____________ (fill in the blank for all known sin). Lord, help me to turn from sin. Change my heart and mind so that I will become more like you. Wash me clean and make me a brand new creature. God, please cause me to understand the Bible. I pray that your Word will come alive in my spirit as I seek to know you more. I give you my life. I worship you. I praise you. In Jesus Name, Amen!"

Now, tell someone that you have made Jesus your Lord and Savior. I would love to be the first person to know that my gift of love (this article) has brought you to eternal life. Comment to me about your born-again experience on this blog... or, click onto my web-site and write to me personally. Now, go and sin no more (John 8:11) for your sins are forgiven and you are truly born-again! Hallelujah!

Yours in Christ,
DeborahDeborah Ross Ministries
Strengthening Families & Encouraging Womenhttp://www.deborahrossministries.org/

LIVING IN THE GARDEN OF EDEN... FOREVER

I am headed out to preach and sing in the SC Prisons and thought I'd share my Bible study notes with you before leaving. This post is one that helps us to see that God desires for us to take "responsibility" for our wrong doing, repent, and then worship Him. His desire is for us to be innocent in our conscious so that we will have full confidence in His love toward us.


When we sin against Him, we become ashamed and, consequently, see ourselves as cursed - undeserving of being able to receive anything good from God. Because of our broken relationship with our heavenly Father through sin, our consciouses are seared and we lose all confidence in our faith. On the other hand, it is through the redemptive power of the blood of Jesus that we are made holy, and have no need to be ashamed. We are clothed in robes of righteousness that cover our nakedness. As children of the King, we can come boldly to the throne of grace knowing that whatsoever we ask the Father (in Jesus name), He will do for us.


My encouragement for you today is that you confess your sins, turn from anything that the Holy Spirit brings to your mind as being against God, and that you RECEIVE God's forgiveness. Receive His cleansing power. Receive His blessings.


Here are my Bible study notes for my message this weekend...
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The 7 stages of SIN that bring forth death VERSES the 7 principles of redemption that bring forth life...

Deuteronomy 30:19 -

"I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live:"

PROVERBS 13:13 - "Whoso despiseth the word shall be destroyed: but he that feareth the commandment shall be rewarded."

Perhaps you've said...

NO ONE EVER TOLD ME THAT BEFORE. OR, MAYBE THEY DID BUT YOU...
1) QUESTIONED THE MEANING OF THE INSTRUCTION
2) ANALYZED THEIR ADVICE
3) DOUBTED THE SIGNIFICANCE OF THEIR INSTRUCTION
4) LUSTED AFTER THAT EXPERIENCE
5) JUSTIFIED YOUR REBELLION
6) HID YOUR SIN
7) BLAMED EVERYONE ELSE FOR YOUR ACTIONS

GOD WANTS US TO...
1) ACKNOWLEDGE OUR WRONG DOING
2) TAKE FULL RESPONSIBILITY FOR OUR ACTIONS
3) REPENT (CHANGE OUR MIND & ACTIONS)
4) RECEIVE FORGIVENESS
5) READ HIS WORD
6) WORSHIP HIM CONTINUALLY
7) LIVE FOREVER

PROVERBS 13:18 - "Poverty and shame shall be to him that refuseth instruction: but he that regardeth reproof shall be honoured."

SIN is conceived and then birthed as we refuse instruction.

PROVERBS 13:20 - "He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed."

Hang out with the wrong crowd and you'll soon be destroyed. Hang out with godly people and you'll gain wisdom.

GENESIS 2:25 AND 3:1-13 - READ

God's original plan was for us to be:
*Naked & Not Ashamed
*To Have Pure Thoughts
*Innocent
*Live Forever

GENESIS 3:11 - "And he said, Who told thee that thou wast naked? Hast thou eaten of the tree, whereof I commanded thee that thou shouldest not eat?"

Satan's illegal entrance into the garden of Eden through a talking snake - to thwart God's plan for humanity - proved fatal as Eve was tempted to do what God had told her not to do. She was in the wrong place at the wrong time, looking at things she shouldn't have been looking at. Satan took advantage of her while she was alone, yet, much too close to sin.

God had said... eat from...

TREE OF LIFE = Live Forever - Naked and Unashamed
TREE OF THE KNOWLEDGE OF GOOD & EVIL = Innocence Lost; Perversion

WHAT WERE SATAN'S TACTICS...

GENESIS 3:1 -
THE LIE - Questioned God's Word
"... Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden?"

GENESIS 3:3-4
THE LIE - Analyzed God's Word / Twisted God's Word / Doubted the Significance of God's Instruction...
"The word 'die' doesn't really mean 'death'.???"

GENESIS 3:5
THE LIE - Lusted after this experience. God is keeping something from you.
"He knows that if you eat from 'this' tree, you will see more and know more."

GENESIS 3:6
THE LIE - Justified sin. It's good for food. Pretty to look at. This experience will make you wiser. "I don't see anything wrong with just one little taste. After-all, it is food. God made food to eat... right?"

GENESIS 3:3
God had told Adam and Eve not to eat of... DON'T EVEN TOUCH... the tree of knowledge.

PEER PRESSURE / DEVIL / FLESH
You won't really die. You'll know good from evil - good experience. You'll be wiser... like God... maybe you can even be your own god! Be open minded. Your eyes can be opened to endless possibilities (of sin). It's fun. It's pretty. It feels good. Everybody is doing it.

ONCE THEIR EYES WERE OPEN... they became...
Ashamed - Naked - Hid From God - Tried to Cover Their Sin with Fig Leaves

THEY STILL HEARD THE VOICE OF GOD AFTER THEIR SIN... Genesis 3:8
THE LIE = They HID FROM GOD. They tried to hide their sin.

THEY BECOME AFRAID OF GOD...
*Not God's plan.
*God wants to bless us, not curse us.
*Sin makes us live in fear.
*Sin makes us live in self-condemnation.

GENESIS 3:11-13
THE LIE - Blame Game. Perhaps it is the truth, but it is not repentance.
"It wasn't my fault. They tricked me. I was born this way. No one ever told me."


The Lord wants us to admit, repent, and believe. Not, live in the lie.

VERSES 14-19 Speaks of the CURSE because of SIN. Sin always brings a curse. Only the blood of Jesus can cover our nakedness... our sin. See verse 21.

THE APPLIED BLOOD OF JESUS BREAKS THE POWER OF THE CURSE.

GENESIS 3:22 - GOD DOESN'T WANT US TO LIVE FOREVER... IN A SINFUL STATE. Instead, He wants us to live eternally with him without spot, blemish, or wrinkle... covered in the blood... living in holiness... full of His Word... worshipping Him.

GENESIS 3:24 - The cherubim (SPIRIT) and the flaming sword (WORD) keep the "Tree of Life". We can only have eternal life through the SPIRIT (the born-again experience) and the WORD (the transformation of our minds). - John 3:5

The Lord DOES NOT want us to live eternally as broken creatures, so He guards the Tree of Life for our own good. If we eat from it in our broken state, we would live forever... broken, deformed, and apart from Him. Instead, He makes a way for us to be made whole, first. Through the cross, our conscious is healed from SIN as we acknowledge and confess our wrong doing, turn from our wicked ways, and believe in the power of the cleansing blood of Jesus to wash us clean and make us a new creature. It is through this one and only door that we are eligible to eat from the Tree of Life. Our eyes are, then, opened to understand God's Word, and our spirit's are made new to worship God alone for all eternity.






CHERUBIM - In immediate contact with Jehovah. Spiritual beings who worship God continually. FLAMING SWORD - The bible is the sword. The word of God is sword of the Spirit.

GOD WANTS US TO... (7 principles)
1) ACKNOWLEDGE OUR WRONG DOING
2) TAKE FULL RESPONSIBILITY FOR OUR ACTIONS
3) REPENT (CHANGE OUR MIND & ACTIONS)
4) RECEIVE FORGIVENESS
5) READ HIS WORD
6) WORSHIP HIM CONTINUALLY
7) LIVE FOREVER WITH HIM

PROVERBS 13:13 - "Whoso despiseth the word shall be destroyed: but he that feareth the commandment shall be rewarded."

Do YOU despise instruction? Or, are YOU aiming to seek the truth; God's truth?

Do YOU know Him? Do YOU love His Word? Are YOU a worshipper?

What will YOU do? Die or Live?

He wants us to LIVE THE ABUNDANT LIFE now and in the life to come! AMEN!

Deuteronomy 30:19 -

"I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live:"

By:  Deborah Ross

http://www.deborahrossministries.org/

Healing a Broken Marriage

Marriage or Divorce?

Dealing with Unfaithfulness

Dear Beautiful Women of God:

I get emails and phone calls all the time from those suffering in marital hardships who are looking for hope in their situation - which seems to be so bleak. The question below is one that I received by email and I'd like to share it with all of you as a Remnant Woman writes the following...

Question:

How do you stand for a marriage when your husband just uses you and cares nothing about you? Especially when you show them unconditional love and they know you are standing so they use that to their advantage. What kind of self respect can you have for yourself to allow yourself to be used like that? Especially when your husband is sleeping with other people and telling them lies about you? Wouldn't God want you to be free to move on and live a new life? My husband isn't sorry for what he has done.

My Reply:


My heart breaks for you. I know, it is very difficult to live day to day with a broken heart that bleeds because of betrayal from their spouse.

I will offer you this one Biblical escape from your torment, but I must also add that this is not necessarily God's best. In Matthew 19 Jesus tells the Pharisees that divorce is permitted in the case of adultery, but, He also adds that divorce is permitted because of the "hardness of our hearts". Even if you divorce your husband, you must still forgive him... I mean truly forgive him. Remember, God sees the heart. While others may not know the bitterness that can be in a person's heart for many years or even a lifetime after divorce, God see it all. It is my conclusion - as one who has overcome marital adversity - that if I must forgive my husband, I'd rather fight for his salvation, aiming to win the whole prize (our marriage, his salvation, and my clean heart) than to face the arduous task of trying to truly forgive after a bitter divorce.

It is my belief that God will use us as vessels of Himself as we stand in the gap for those that are lost and living in darkness. Your husband is obviously lost and living in darkness. While it is very painful to love someone who is unlovable, we are also told that learning to love our enemies is what makes us more like Christ (Matthew 5:44, Luke 6:27, Luke 6:35).

As in 1 Corinthians 13:8, I believe that "Love Never Fails". As you pray for your husband, speak the truth to your husband (not in a nagging way), live as an example of Christ before your husband's eyes, and forgive your husband, God will soften your husband's heart as you create fertile ground for your miracle. It is not a quick fix. You will need to ask yourself many times over if you can withstand the challenge of this spiritual warfare, knowing that the devil will not back down easily.

As you ask the Holy Spirit for His daily guidance and protection, while placing yourself in the strong hand of God, He will take care of you, guiding you step by step through the process of this dark valley. God is all-knowing and all-powerful. He knows exactly what it will take for your husband to surrender and repent of his sins. God will use you as a vessel of light as you completely surrender to His pathway to wholeness for your family. Most importantly, you'll need to trust that your faith in God's Word will bring forth the promise of a restored marriage with a born-again husband. Many people come to the conclusion that someone will never change and so they give up the fight. I like to say, how long would you believe for the salvation of your child? How long would you commit to being the parent of your child, if they were in rebellion and sinning against you? Is your husband any more disposable than your child?

God does not want any to perish. He wants everyone to become a born-again Child of God. God does not want any marriage to end in divorce. He wants all families to remain whole. Knowing this, you can pray with confidence, knowing that God is on your side. The waiting and the suffering is not fun, but it is what every Christian goes through at some point or another, in some area of their faith.

Romans 5:1-5

When we suffer for righteousness sake, God works out things in our own lives that perhaps we didn't even know needed attention. He molds us and shapes us to be more like Himself as we surrender our will, to His. Though our surrender may be extremely painful for a season, we don't do it as one who has no hope. Instead, we do it knowing that God is faithful and He will not make us ashamed in the end.

We cannot change our husbands, but God can... and He wants to. I want to encourage you to pray the Marriage Prayer, daily. Also, I currently have my audio message of Faith, Forgiveness, Future posted at the bottom of this blog that you can freely listen to for encouragement - right from your computer. My teaching series of Root Digger, Not a Rug Sweeper (available on my web-site) is another valuable tool of encouragement that will help you during this season of pain. Finally, I have a new book titled, Healing a Broken Marriage: Love Never Fails .  I highly recommend these resources, as they may prove vital to the outcome of your journey.

Again, you are ultimately the only one who can decide how to handle your situation. Divorce is permitted... but, it is not necessarily the best way. Ask the Lord to show you what to do - day by day - and He will. He loves you AND He loves your husband. He wants each of you born-again and set free from the bondage of sin.

"Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope: And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us."

______________________

Then, another Remnant Woman writes...

As a "seasoned Christian," I actually pray for God's refining fires however, when they come in by way of infidelity I find that I fail the test every time. When I found out about the last incident, that happened between my husband and my brother's wife, I thought I would lose my mind. I shut down in every area of life and depression took over. I felt like a lousy Christian because I was consumed by grief. I felt like the Lord would never be able to use me again. I had always been committed to my family in spite of the infidelities, however, this one had crossed the family lines. What made matters worse was she had just lost her mother to cancer the same month I found out and had gained all the other family members sympathy in spite of her indiscretion. I was told to just "drop it and forgive and forget." There would be no accountability, how was I to handle that? I was at the end of my rope, I just couldn't take anymore of anything. The pain inside was unbearable, so much so that I began cutting on myself just to relieve it! What kind of Christian cuts herself to relieve pain when she should be turning to Jesus for comfort and healing? The joy of the Lord is supposed to be my strength! I began to doubt my own salvation. Then the tears of remorse began to wash over me as I remembered the day I was saved and baptized with the fire of the Holy Spirit. There was no denying that to be true. Then the guilt of conviction kicked in, that I had abused my own vessel, God's temple, making me feel worse. Oh, would this merry-go-round of emotion, grief, and conviction ever stop? What was I missing in the lesson that I had to endure the pain of infidelity a fifth time? What are you trying to teach me Lord? I prayed, "Lord, please send me a teacher who will make it all make sense. Surround me with your "spirit-filled" people that will gently walk me through this trial so that I can be victorious this time." This is where your book found it's way into my hands and I rejoiced and cried as I read it. I said to myself, "This woman has the answers I seek Lord! She has Your wisdom Lord. Your Word is in her mouth and you have taken her on a similar journey and she has come out victorious!" Truly, Deborah, had it not been for your book, I would still be spinning on the merry-go-round in darkness trying to find the off switch. Thank you for shining your light through my darkness so I could "find" and "hit" the off switch! You gave me clarity where I could only see darkness. Glory be to God and may He bless your ministry ten thousand fold!

_________________________

To God be the Glory for every marriage restored, every broken heart mended, and every tormented mind that receives the peace of God.

In Christ,

Deborah Ross

Deborah Ross Ministries

Strengthening Families, Encouraging Faith, Preaching the Gospel

http://www.deborahrossministries.org/

What does it mean to be born-again?

How to be Forgiven & Born Again

JOHN 3:3

"Jesus answered and said unto him, 'Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.'"

The Word of God teaches that unless we are "born-again" we cannot see the Kingdom of God.
This means:

· We cannot "live" in the Kingdom of God;
· We cannot "receive the benefits" of the Kingdom of God;
· We cannot "understand" the Kingdom of God;
· And, we cannot have "eternal life" in God's Kingdom;

... Until we become a born-again Child of God.

Being born-again is a supernatural experience that is - in some ways - much like that of being born from our mother's womb. The difference, of course, is that we are not physically born-again, but rather, spiritually transformed in our spirit man. When we were born from our mother's womb, we did not need to understand the process before we could enter this world. Yet, since the day of our natural birth, we have been continually growing in our understanding so that as adults we can begin to comprehend the miraculous wonder of conception, pregnancy and the childbirth existence.

Being born-again is no different. We don't need to fully understand the concept in order to become a Child of God. We simply believe in faith on the price that Jesus paid for our sins; and then, supernaturally, God plants His seed of righteousness inside of our hearts. That seed will grow throughout our lifetime as we gain a greater understanding of our born-again transformation. From that day forward we will be ever-maturing from that of a new born babe in Christ into a sanctified Child of God.

JOHN 3:16

"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."

God's Word promises eternal life to everyone who confesses with their mouth and believes in their heart that Jesus is Lord (Romans 10:10). Being a born-again Child of God is really simple, and yet, many will fail to understand how to become a Christian because of their unwillingness to turn from a life of sin. Sin separates mankind from God. God is holy and He cannot co-exist with sin. As hard as we may try, we can never completely rid ourselves of sin in order to walk in the favor of God. In fact, everything about our human nature pulls away from God. Romans 8:7 says that we are incapable of following God's laws because our human nature is hostile toward the truth of God's Word.

JOHN 3:21

"But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God."

It is only when we allow the light of God to shine down on our hearts that we can see the truth about our sinful condition. Stepping into the light of God requires that we humbly come to the throne of grace with a true heart of repentance from all known sin. Repentance is not just saying "I'm sorry", neither does it try to justify thoughts and deeds with rational explanations of "why". Rather, repentance is a change of our heart and mind. When we repent, we admit our wrong doing or wrong thoughts while standing spiritually naked before God.

In order to be supernaturally transformed (born-again) we must first recognize that we are a sinner who needs a Savior. As God shines His light of truth (His Word) upon our hearts, our response should be a sincere cry of relinquishing our will to His. At that same moment, as we put all of our trust in the belief that Jesus is, indeed, the Son of God, and that He died for our sins; the breath of God blows the wind of the Holy Spirit into our innermost being as we are gloriously changed from a sinner to a saint. We don't have to fully understand it all. We just need to accept, by faith, that God loves us so much that He sent His Son, Jesus, into the world to make a way for us to live in His Kingdom... now and for all eternity.

MARK 11:26

"But if ye do not forgive, neither will your Father which is in heaven forgive your trespasses."

Realize that repentance and being forgiven by God are synonymous with forgiving others. After all, how can we expect God to forgive our sins, if we are not also willing to forgive those who have sinned against us? 1 John 3:15 tells us that if we hate someone, we are a murderer and we should know that murderers do not have eternal life abiding within their hearts.

1 JOHN 4:7-8

"Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love."

In order to truly know God, we must be willing to lay down all grudges, bitterness, wrath, jealousy, malice, envy, strife, and revenge. God is love. If we are to be a born-again Child of God, we too, must agree to love the way Christ loves us. God loves us so much that He sent Jesus to die for our sins even when we didn't deserve salvation. Is there someone who doesn't deserve your forgiveness? Yet, in order to be more like Christ, you will purpose in your heart to forgive them.

JOHN 3:18-19

"He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil."

I think John 3:19 explains the reason that Jesus is such a stumbling block for those who don't want to believe He is the Son of God. So many religions accept that Jesus was a prophet or that He was a good man and they may even go as far as to say that He was born of a virgin and that He even died on a cross; however, in an effort to hide from the truth of one's sinful heart, many choose to follow a lie - a false religion - in an effort to make themselves feel as though they will have eternal life... IN SPITE OF THEIR LOVE FOR SIN.

God is love. God loves people. God is Holy. God hates sin. He has made a way for us to be reconciled to Himself. He sent His love, in the form of a man named Jesus, into the world to touch, heal, and save those who will sincerely believe that He is the Christ.

GALATIANS 2:20

"I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me."

Jesus gave His life for you and I. Will you give your life back to Him and accept His outstretched hand of mercy, grace, and love? God does not want anyone to spend an eternity in hell (separated from His love). He wants everyone to live with Him forever!

If you want to accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior... If you want to be born-again... If you want to be forgiven... Pray this simple prayer with all of your heart:

"Father God, I confess that I am a sinner in need of a Savior. I believe, in faith, that Jesus is truly the Son of God, and while I may not understand everything right now, I do believe that Jesus was born of a virgin, He walked the earth as God in the flesh, He died on a cross, and He was raised from the dead by the power of God. I believe that you, Lord, love me so much that you made a way for me to have eternal life. I confess _____________ (fill in the blank for all known sin). Lord, help me to turn from sin. Change my heart and mind so that I will become more like you. Wash me clean and make me a brand new creature. God, please cause me to understand the Bible. I pray that your Word will come alive in my spirit as I seek to know you more. I give you my life. I worship you. I praise you. In Jesus Name, Amen!"

Now, tell someone that you have made Jesus your Lord and Savior. I would love to be the first person to know that my gift of love (this article) has brought you to eternal life. Comment to me about your born-again experience on this blog... or, click onto my web-site and write to me personally. Now, go and sin no more (John 8:11) for your sins are forgiven and you are truly born-again! Hallelujah!

Yours in Christ,
Deborah

Deborah Ross Ministries
Strengthening Families & Encouraging Women
http://www.deborahrossministries.org/

Forgiving Others

FORGIVENESS...

...is a PROCESS
...that begins with a DECISION

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

First, comes the OFFENSE!

Next, BITTERNESS. Then, UNFORGIVENESS. And finally... TORMENT!!!

James 1:15 tells us that once lust is conceived, it brings forth sin. Then, once sin is finished with you, it brings forth death.

Unforgiveness is a conceived sin that is designed by Satan to kill YOU.

The unforgiveness you hold in your heart does not hurt the other person; but rather, it slowly destroys "your" entire being, robbing you of "your" life, all the while separating you from the presence of God.

Oh, I know firsthand, the pain and suffering caused by that gigantic bitter pill that was shoved down your throat... against your will. You didn't ask for it; you didn't even deserve it. You've tried to get rid of it. Yet, here you are, going through the motions of life on "automatic pilot". No joy. No vision. No peace. Just a nagging replay of your offense, going over and over and over again in your head. You want so desperately to be freed from this torment... But how?

First of all, let me tell you that you "are" capable of forgiving. No matter how vile your injury, God has given you the strength, power, and ability to overcome those demonic forces that have hurt you.

I remind you: forgiveness is a process that begins with a decision.

Once you have determined in your heart that you must forgive, you'll need to stick with your resolve until your emotions line-up with God's Word. The ONLY way to do this is through PRAYER... and lots of it!

After my husband defiled our marriage of eighteen years by gambling our finances away, lying, alcoholism, drug addictions, and secretly (so he thought) lusting over pornography, I was angry and frustrated to no end. But, once he crossed the sacred line of our marriage vows (after all that I had already put up with) by committing adultery, it was as if Satan, himself, shoved a nine-foot-tall glass of bitterness down my throat. I was poisoned! And now, this poison made me think I'd never be the same. I thought I'd never be able to get over the hell that he put me through for so many years. I was mad at him; I was mad at the adulteress; I was mad at an in-law for deceiving me concerning my husband's whereabouts; and, I was mad at God for allowing this to happen to me!

Luke 17:4

"And if he trespass against thee seven times in a day, and seven times in a day turn again to thee, saying, I repent; thou shalt forgive him."

I knew that the Word of God said you must forgive "seventy times seven", but I was hoping that I had reached that magic number of four-hundred and ninety so that God would allow me to harbor unforgiveness toward my husband - forever! Desperate for help; I ran to my church and sought counsel from a pastor on staff. I learned so many things from our sessions that helped me to forgive and I'd like to share some of them with you now.

First, when the Bible speaks of "seventy times seven"... it's not a finite number, such as four-hundred and ninety. When Jesus told Peter that he should forgive "seventy times seven", He was actually saying, "You must always forgive." Let's look at another passage of scripture that confirms this point...

Matthew 6:14

"For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you:"

Ouch! Did this mean that God would not forgive me of my sins, if I didn't forgive everyone else of theirs... including my husband?

Mark 11:26

"But if ye do not forgive, neither will your Father which is in heaven forgive your trespasses."

You see, I was a born-again, spirit-filled Christian who had enjoyed the power of the Holy Ghost for many years prior to my offense; and now, I couldn't bear to think of ever returning to that place of separation from God's presence. I knew I would have to forgive "everyone" who seemed to have taken part in my demise, but I was completely overwhelmed at the enormity of my dilemma. Everything in my life appeared to be broken and I couldn't see any sort of light at the end of my tunnel.

Thankfully, this godly counselor gave me the following pieces of wisdom that saved my mind and made it possible for me to move forward in God's Will of forgiveness. First, he said, you must forgive your husband, as well as everyone else who has offended you throughout this trial. This does not mean that you have to stay married to your husband (Matthew 19:7-9 - according to scripture, divorce is permitted in the case of adultery - but this is not God's perfect plan); it does not mean that you have to associate with the adulteress or even keep company with your in-law. You "do" however need to stay in fellowship with God.

Then he said, "You need to compartmentalize your offenses so that you can deal with one hurdle at a time; leaving all of the other people and problems in the Lords care until you are ready to handle more." Learning to separate the troubling aspects of my life, to deal with one thing at a time, was a huge piece to the puzzle of my forgiveness journey.

And so, I decided to work on forgiving my husband, first. Of course, I knew I couldn't stay mad at God. After-all, without His blessings I'd never be whole again. He is my breath, my life, my strength, and my source. I needed Jehovah Shalom (My God of Peace) to restore my soul. I cried, "God help me!", as I literally ran to my closet - many times a day - screaming, crying, arguing, reminding, begging (yes, even begging) God to help me to forgive. I quoted scripture. I bound up principalities and powers. I bound good things (according to God's Word) to me, my husband, and my children. I pleaded, "God, take this bitterness from me! Help me to forgive!" Each day, the Lord would take my bitterness from me and I would be strengthened, but the next day... I would have to start the process all over again.

It's not that the Lord didn't take it; rather, I kept taking it back. The devil would flood my mind with horrendous thoughts and images sending me into a panic attack as adrenaline surged through every cavity of my soul. This was truly the hardest battle I had ever fought.

It took me about a year to purge the bitterness that consumed by being. I don't recall the exact moment, or the exact day, but I just know that at some point I became free. Of course, throughout this year long prayer vigil, I prayed for my husband (the one who offended me). Thankfully, he became a born-again believer shortly after our marital collapse; and so, I decided that if I had to forgive him, then I wanted the prize for my hard work. I wanted my marriage to be restored... and it was! Hallelujah!

Your situation may not require restoration with your offender. Perhaps you were violated by a stranger, or maybe by an acquaintance. Regardless of "who" hurt you, forgiveness mandates that you pray blessings and not cursings upon your perpetrator. If you find that too hard to do, start by praying for their salvation - that is more than enough. If the person claims to be a Christian, then pray that God will open the eyes of their understanding so perhaps they'll feel remorse over hurting you and ask for your forgiveness. If they don't... it's OK! Pray for them to not suffer the consequences of the wages of their sin(s) toward you.

I once witnessed someones house burning down in the middle of the night shortly after they blind sighted me with hideous rage. Through this instance, the Lord taught me the importance of praying for my enemies. That person, and their entire family, were not born-again believers and they would have all spent eternity in hell - had they died in their house fire that night. Was their house fire the wrath of God? That, I don't know; but, what I do know is that God spoke to my heart about the importance of praying for those who have offended me.

Ephesians 4:32

"And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you."

Forgiveness. How do you forgive?

* Realize that forgiveness is a commandment from God... it's not a suggestion.
* Purpose in your mind and heart that you will purge "all" bitterness and malice toward your offender.
* Cry out to God DAILY asking Him to take the bitterness from you - UNTIL IT IS ALL GONE!
* Compartmentalize your problems so that you can accomplish one thing at a time, leaving the others in God's hands until you are ready to deal with them.
* Pray for your offender. Pray blessings and not cursings.
* Read your Bible.
* Praise and worship God in the midst of your pain. (This really confuses the devil.)
* Don't rehearse your bitterness. Only speak of your testimony in light of what God has done to turn things around, according to His Word - and not according to the desires of your flesh.
* Speak the truth in love. If possible, tell the person that they offended you. Perhaps they'll repent. If they don't... you must still forgive, for your sake!

Remember what Jesus said as He hung on the cross... "Father forgive them, for they know not what they do." This should be your example. This should be your goal. When you choose to forgive, you create fertile ground for God to work a miracle. Who knows? Maybe "your miracle" will be a restored marriage, mended relationship(s), a new job, born-again family members, your offender becomes born-again, financial prosperity, healing in your body, a dream accomplished or ____________ (put your secret heart's desire here). With God, all things are possible!

Matthew 5:44

"But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;"

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Luke 6:28

"Bless them that curse you, and pray for them which despitefully use you."

...Forgive and be free in Jesus name!

Please know, I share the details of my marriage in a transparent way because I want you to know that if Jesus can save our family, change my husband, and heal my broken heart... He can do the same for you. I now have a wonderful husband who is a born-again man of God. He is the head of our household and is completely free of all addictions. The Word of God is true and powerful!

For more teachings on FORGIVENESS, please click this link and order the CD or DVD of FAITH, FORGIVENESS, FUTURE. http://www.deborahrossministries.org/

Another great resource for FORGIVING and for overcoming ADDICTIONS, GENERATIONAL CURSES, and STRONGHOLDS OF THE MIND is the double CD set titled ROOT DIGGER, NOT A RUG SWEEPER. Click the link here to order yours... http://www.deborahrossministries.org/

Yours in Christ, Deborah

Deborah Ross Ministries
Strengthening Families & Encouraging Women
www.DeborahRossMinistries.org