Introduction: What if you were told that the hurt and disappointment you have experienced in your life could possibly be the best thing to ever have happened to you and those around you.  It is true and can be proven with the story of Joseph (OT) in the Bible.  (Matthew 7:13-14)

What are the Consequences of Unforgiveness?

• Physical—stressed, diseased & weakened

• Emotional—calloused & isolated

• Mental—self-deception & transference

• Spiritual

                Inability to love and trust God

                Doubts regarding your relationship with God

                Major hindrances to spiritual growth

                Gives Satan a stronghold in your life

What are the Breakthroughs to Forgiveness?

• Discern what character qualities God wants to develop in you through the offense  (Genesis 37:1-11)

• Realize that God is working in you through the actions of your offender

                 The Unknown Plan (Genesis 37:18-28) (Psalm 105:16-22)

                 The Known Plan (Genesis 45:4-8)

• Expect to suffer for doing right as a normal part of living for God (Genesis 39:1-20)

• Surrender that God may bring

                  Vindication (justice) (Genesis 41:37-44)

                  Regeneration (healing) (Genesis 41:50-52)

                  Restoration (repair) (Genesis 45:9-11)

• Thank God for the blessings He plans through the offense (Genesis 50:15-21) (Romans 8:28)

 What are the Benefits of Forgiveness?

• Identify with Jesus  (The Story Of Joseph)

• Proper Perspective  (2 Corinthians 12:7-10)

• Good Health  (Proverbs 3:5-8)

• Personal Peace  (Philippians 4:6-7)

• Ministry Platform  (Genesis 50:20)

• Abundant Life  (John 10:10)  (Luke 4:16-21)

Application:  Is there anyone in your life who has hurt you that you have not forgiven? Is unforgiveness worth the consequences?  Is forgiveness worth the benefits?

CARD:

THE PATH TO TRANSFORMATION

Who has hurt you?  --identify the person(s):__________________ _______________________________________________________

How does it make you feel?  --identify the pain:______________ _______________________________________________________

What is your natural inclination?  --identify the lie:____________ _______________________________________________________

What does God’s Word say?  --identify the truth:______________ _______________________________________________________

Exchange: the lie for truth; the darkness for light; the disease for healing; the feeling for faith; the bondage for freedom

Memory Verse:  “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.”                         (Romans 8:28)

Prayer:  “God, I am asking you today to help me turn my hurt to hope, knowing that you can turn those things that have caused me pain into something for Your purpose and glory.” 

Sign:_________________________________ Date:_______________