Episode 207: Healing through Forgiveness

This week, Dot and Cara dive into the role of forgiveness in our healing journey—what it is, what it isn’t, and why it’s essential. Looking at the story of Stephen in Acts 7, they explore how keeping our eyes on Jesus helps us walk in obedience and remind us that the real goal is intimacy with Him. If you’re struggling to forgive, you’re not alone. We’d love for you to pull up a chair and be part of our conversation. Got a question about today’s episode or something else you’d like to hear us talk about on the show? Let us know! Episode recap:Start by writing down Acts 7:55-60 (0:15)A large part of the pathway to healing is forgiveness (1:20)A person’s sin always hurts others (3:26)We cannot fully heal until we forgive (5:31)What does forgiveness look like? (8:30)When we refuse to forgive, we are being disobedient to God (12:40)If we are going to be able to forgive over and over, we need to understand why (18:10)If we keep our eyes on Jesus, we can truly forgive  (20:18)Our forgiveness doesn’t release others from the consequences of their sin (21:30)Why do you want to be healed? (25:50)The goal isn’t getting over the hurt or forgiving, it’s getting closer to Jesus (35:00)Are you interested in having Dot come and speak to your community? Email us at [email protected] Write this Down! on YouTubeFind Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook Scripture Verse: Acts 7:55-60 (NASB)“But he, being full of the Holy Spirit, looked intently into heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God; and he said, “Behold, I see the heavens opened and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.” But they shouted with loud voices, and covered their ears and rushed at him with one mind. When they had driven him out of the city, they began stoning him; and the witnesses laid aside their cloaks at the feet of a young man named Saul. They went on stoning Stephen as he called on the Lord and said, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit!” Then he fell on his knees and cried out with a loud voice, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them!” Having said this, he fell asleep.”