Forgiving as the Lord Forgave

Do you struggle to forgive? Maybe you have been through something horrific and you cannot imagine offering forgiveness. Join Deedy Tripp and I as we discuss forgiving through the power of the Holy Spirit. Deedy Tripp—conference speaker, Bible teacher, and survivor—is Angela’s guest for a vulnerable conversation about Jesus’ words in Matthew 6:14-15. Deedy shares her deeply personal journey from a childhood marked by abuse and betrayal to a life transformed by the freeing power of forgiveness. She explains that forgiveness isn’t optional for believers—but it isn’t easy, either. Through honest stories and biblical insight, this episode offers help, hope, and wisdom for anyone wrestling with the call to forgive.   Episode Highlights Angela and Deedy read Matthew 6:14-15, clarifying what Jesus did—and did not—mean by linking our forgiveness of others with God’s forgiveness of us. Deedy opens up about her experience of childhood sexual abuse, her initial refusal to forgive, and how years of wrestling with God and His Word led her to real freedom and even reconciliation. The conversation covers key truths: Forgiveness is for your freedom and healing, not your abuser’s benefit. Forgiveness does NOT mean returning to an unsafe situation or excusing injustice; boundaries and justice are both biblical. True forgiveness is a choice and a process, not a one-time feeling—and it may take years and daily surrender. God uses our surrendered pain for the healing of others, sometimes in ways far beyond what we could imagine. Great Quotes  “If we refuse to forgive, we’re saying we’re better than Jesus. He forgave us for everything—we can’t act as if we’re above forgiveness.” “Forgiveness is for you… Holding onto anger and hatred is like putting a basket over the light Christ wants to shine in our hearts.” “Forgiveness isn’t a checklist. It’s an act of love for Jesus because of what He’s done for us.” “It is okay to seek justice for yourself or your children. Forgiveness does not excuse the crime.” “Unforgiveness is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to die… You’re only hurting yourself.” Resources Mentioned Scripture Focus: Matthew 6:14-15  Parable Referenced: The Unforgiving Servant - Matthew 18:21-35 Support & Contact: Deedy Tripp - [email protected] Related Episodes Ep. 9: “God Sings Over You” (Karen Dorsey)  Ep. 20: “We Can Through Jesus” (Janet McHenry)  Ep. 7: “Never Giving Up” (Laura Acuna)  Life as Worship Newsletter For devotions, small group questions, and updates: Subscribe Here