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Forgiveness is one of the most talked-about commands in Scripture, and one of the hardest to live out.

In this episode, we explore what biblical forgiveness truly is (and what it is not). We walk through Matthew 18, the story of Joseph in Genesis, and Jesus’ words on the cross. We also discuss what research reveals about forgiveness and emotional health, and how releasing offense impacts not only our spirit but our nervous system.

This conversation is both educational and deeply personal. I briefly share part of my own journey in learning to forgive my father, and how surrendering that relationship to God changed me.

If you’ve been carrying offense, replaying wounds, or struggling to release someone from what they owe you, this episode will guide you toward freedom.

In This Episode:

• What forgiveness is (and what it is not)
• The Parable of the Unforgiving Servant (Matthew 18:21–35)
• Joseph’s story of betrayal and redemption (Genesis 37–50)
• Jesus’ posture of forgiveness on the cross (Luke 23:34)
• The difference between forgiveness, trust, and reconciliation
• Insights from the Stanford Forgiveness Project
• A practical 3-step framework for releasing offense
• SOAPling Ephesians 4:32 together

Key Scriptures:

• Matthew 18:21–35
• Genesis 37–50
• Genesis 50:20
• Luke 23:34
• Ephesians 4:32

Research Mentioned:

Luskin, F. et al. (2002). Forgiveness and health outcomes. Journal of Behavioral Medicine.
Stanford Forgiveness Project, Stanford University School of Medicine.

Download the Free Companion Study Guide

This week’s forgiveness study guide includes:

• Scripture references
• Reflection prompts
• A guided release exercise
• SOAP breakdown of Ephesians 4:32

Download it at:
 👉 shopjoyfulorder.com

Pair it with your SOAP Journal to go deeper.

If this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who may need freedom on the other side of offense.

Connect with Leslie:

Follow on IG: @yourjoyfulorderstyle

Website: https://shopjoyfulorder.com/

Email: [email protected]
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