MARCH – Strong Families, Strong Faith – Building Homes By God’s Blueprint
SUNDAY’S SERMON SUMMARY
Unforgiveness is like a poison that undermines our well-being and destroys relationships, leaving deep emotional, physical, and mental scars. The message is clear: holding on to past hurts only weakens us and our families. Instead, we are called to completely let go of old grievances and embrace forgiveness—a divine mandate reinforced throughout Scripture. Biblical examples, such as Joseph’s journey from betrayal to restoration, remind us that no matter how painful our past, transformation is possible when we choose to forgive and allow God’s grace to heal our wounds.
By taking practical steps toward healing—engaging in honest conversations, seeking wise guidance, praying, and consistently choosing forgiveness—we actively participate in God’s restorative work in our lives and homes. This process transforms individual pain into a powerful legacy of love, unity, and hope. When we invite God’s love into our relationships, even the most broken bonds can be mended, creating a nurturing, peaceful environment that sets the stage for lasting restoration and paves the way for a future filled with connection and grace. As we practice forgiveness daily, each act of letting go builds the strength necessary to overcome bitterness and rebuild trust. Moreover, our willingness to forgive becomes a beacon of hope that inspires others to embark on their own journey toward healing, ultimately transforming our communities into places of compassion and unity.
GO TO www.belmontbaptistchurch.com/sermons and listen to Sunday’s message.
Beats From Your Pastor’s Heart
THE POWER OF FORGIVENESS
“And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” Ephesians 4:32
This verse reminds us that forgiveness is not just a suggestion but a vital part of our Christian walk. God calls us to show kindness and compassion, mirroring the incredible forgiveness He has shown us through Christ. When we forgive, we reflect His love and open our hearts to healing.
Consider the life of Joseph, who was deeply hurt when his own brothers betrayed and sold him into slavery. Despite the immense pain he endured, Joseph chose to forgive his brothers, allowing God’s grace to transform his bitterness into an opportunity for healing and restoration within his family. His story shows us that forgiveness can mend even the most broken relationships and pave the way for renewed trust and love.
Take a moment to think about any lingering hurt or resentment you may be holding onto. Identify one specific area in your life where forgiveness is needed—whether it’s a personal relationship or a past mistake that still pains your heart. Write it down and then decide on a practical step: perhaps it’s reaching out with a sincere apology, or simply choosing to release the pain through prayer and reflection. This act of forgiveness is not only a gift to others, but also a freeing blessing for your own soul.
Imagine a deep wound on your skin that needs to be cleaned and cared for before it can heal properly. Just as a proper treatment helps a physical wound close and fade, forgiveness works to cleanse our hearts of bitterness and pain, allowing the healing process to begin. Over time, as the wound heals, the scar may remain, but it becomes a testament to the strength and resilience of our healing.
Prayer Assignment: “Lord, grant me the strength and humility to forgive those who have hurt me. I ask that You help me release all bitterness from my heart so that I may experience Your healing touch. Fill me with Your grace so that I may extend forgiveness and love to others, just as You have forgiven me. Amen.”
Reflect on these truths throughout your day, trusting that as you choose forgiveness, you are stepping into the freedom and restoration that only God’s love can bring.
MONDAY’S PRAYER REQUESTS
Angela Bryan’s Sister
Ann Stanley
Beth – A Friend Of Amy Garners
Carol Lawhead
Danny Jarrard
Darlene Wiggins
David Newby
Doris Loyd
Dr. and Mrs. Davis
Eric Magnusson’s Mother
Eric Ward
Friend of Linda Hodge
Gayle Sparks
George & Linda Alexander
George Calhoon
James Burnette
James Parker
Jessica Headrick
Jodi Bateman
John McClain’s Mother
June Cronan’s Sister
June Davis
Kailey Bateman
Kathryn Raines
Kim McClain’s Mother
Kim McClain’s Sister
Lamar Knight’s Family in CA Fires
Lee Cronan
Lillianna Magnusson’s Mom
Linda Breedlove’s Sister – Sarah
Lonzo Christian
Lori Blount’s Mother
Mary William’s Granddaughter
Mary Williams
Mary Williamson – Dana Jackson’s Mom
Marynell Ford
Mrs. Franklin
Nora Allison
Pastor Driskell
Richard Blount – Back Surgery
Robbie Edwards
Rose Fuller – Pruitt-Monroe Nursing Home, Forsyth GA
Scarlett – Marynell’s Granddaughter
Scott Lanier
Steve Michaels
Tom Witcher