🎧 Sneak Peak:

In this episode, we're diving deep into the healing power of forgiveness. Is it really possible to forgive someone who hurt you deeply? Does forgiving mean forgetting?

We explore myths that keep people stuck in bitterness, unpack biblical truth about forgiveness, and share a powerful red felt activity from author Lisa TerKeurst that will shift how you see the process of letting go.

⏱ Episode Time Stamps:

01:14 – Intro & Why Forgiveness Matters

02:10 – Forgiveness Impacts our Health

03:02 – Common Myths About Forgiveness (Debunked!)

06:40 – What the Bible Really Says About Forgiveness

07:26 – Forgiving the Fact and the Impact

08:36 – Lisa TerKeurst’s Red Felt Forgiveness Activity

11:42 – Choose Life Challenge for This Week

12:14 - Final Thoughts: Forgiving Ourselves, Forgiving God

✅ Key Takeaways:

• Forgiveness is not about excusing someone else’s behavior—it’s about freeing yourself from bitterness.
• Forgiveness doesn’t always equal reconciliation, and it doesn’t mean pretending the hurt didn’t happen.
• Myths like “forgive and forget” or “time heals all wounds” can prevent true healing.
• Scripture consistently calls believers to forgive, not because it’s easy, but because it reflects God's grace.
• Lisa TerKeurst’s red felt activity powerfully illustrates how forgiveness is a layered, often ongoing process—one that God honors even when it doesn’t feel complete.

DISCLAIMER

I am a licensed professional counselor, however this podcast (and the info shared on my blogs and social media) is not therapy. It is for informational purposes only; this is not a professional therapy relationship; and it is not personal advice to your specific situation. If you wonder whether professional counseling may be helpful for you in this season of life, check out this article that outlines when you might need to seek the help of a professional counselor and how to find a good one: https://shelleyspence.com/how-to-find-a-christian-counselor

💬 Mentioned in This Episode:

• Lisa TerKeurst – “Forgiving What You Can’t Forget”
• Key Scriptures: Ephesians 4:32, Matthew 18:21–22, Colossians 3:13
• John Hopkins article on forgiveness study: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/forgiveness-your-health-depends-on-it
• How to Find a Christian Counselor: https://shelleyspence.com/how-to-find-a-christian-counselor
• Sign up for my Inner Circle newsletter: Https://shelleyspence.com

I’m cheering you on as you break free from what’s holding you back and keeping you stuck.