We finished the fast, and now we finish the series. In this final and most challenging message of the "Cheat Code" series, Pastor Ryan tackles the Christian F-word: forgiveness. Using Paul's letter to the Ephesians and his own powerful testimony, this teaching reveals why some people can go from tragic pasts to inspiring futures—and why others stay stuck. From understanding how footholds give the enemy a base of operations in your life to discovering the four steps to releasing the past (decide don't feel, go first, name the debt, release it to God)—this message is raw, honest, and transformative. If you've been carrying the weight of unforgiveness, bitterness, or anger, this message will show you how to release your past so your past can release you. Their hardship doesn't have to destroy your life, but it will quietly ruin it. At some point, you have to decide: will your past remind you or define you?

*Scripture:* Ephesians 4:26-32

*Big Idea:* We have to release the past so that our past can release us. Forgiveness doesn't let them off the hook—it allows you to take back control of your future. Your past will remind you, but it doesn't have to define you.

*Key Quote:* "You have to release the past so that your past can release you. Forgiveness is a decision: you don't owe me anymore."

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*Key Topics:*

How people go from tragic pasts to inspiring futures

The Circle of Blame: owning our part vs. dealing with their part

Ephesians 4:26 - In your anger, do not sin

How many sunsets will you hold on to anger?

Don't give the devil a foothold (base of operations)

Signs of a foothold: react vs. respond, rehearse conversations, protect before trust

Forgiveness is not a feeling—it's a decision

Four steps: Decide don't feel, Go first, Name the debt, Release it to God

Forgiveness isn't bolt cutters—it's a pry bar (you'll do it more than once)

Pastor Ryan's testimony: from pain to purpose

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