APRIL – Resurrection Power: Living the RISEN Life

SUNDAY’S SERMON SUMMARY

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Beats From Your Pastor’s Heart

EMBRACING FORGIVENESS AND DIVINE FREEDOM

The Apostle Paul’s words in Ephesians 4:32—“And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.”—resound as a clarion call for a life marked by compassion and mercy. These words are not simply an ethical guideline; they are an invitation to experience a radical inner transformation. When we choose forgiveness, we open our hearts to the divine power of resurrection—a power that renews us from the inside out. In the act of forgiving, we mirror the very heart of our Savior, whose sacrifice on the cross brought new life out of death.

Consider the narrative of Joseph—a son who rose from the depths of betrayal and bitterness. Though wronged by his own brothers, Joseph’s journey was not defined by the stings of his past but by his capacity to love and forgive. In a poignant testimony of faith, his forgiveness became a channel through which God’s grand design was revealed. His heart, once burdened with hurt, was freed through forgiveness, allowing him to steward a future that bore the stamp of divine providence. Joseph’s life reminds us that the resurrection of our inner self—our restoration and renewal—often begins in the crucible of forgiveness. His example encourages us to rise above our personal trials, trusting that our wounds may one day blossom into testimonies of God’s restorative power.

Forgiveness is much more than letting go of anger or resentment—it is a transformative act that breaks the cycles of pain and suffering. When we harbor past hurts, our spirits become shackled, often weighed down by regret and bitterness. Yet, God beckons us to cast aside these chains and step into a life of divine liberation. By releasing old grudges, we not only mimic Christ’s boundless mercy but also create space for spiritual resurrection. This act is not about excusing injustice but about choosing life over lingering death, light over darkness. Each moment of genuine forgiveness is a rebirth, a chance to reclaim the fullness of the life God designed for us—vibrant, free, and overflowing with hope.

Imagine, if you will, a traveler burdened with a heavy backpack filled with jagged stones. Each stone represents a grievance, a hurt, or a bitter memory that we have carried along life’s journey. The physical weight of these stones mirrors the emotional and spiritual load that weighs us down. Now, envision the act of forgiveness as the gentle, healing moment when you remove one stone after another. With each stone set aside, you feel your load lighten, and your path becomes clearer. Your heart begins to soar, liberated from the weight of past offenses. This image encapsulates the truth that forgiveness is not only an internal act of reconciliation, but a powerful step towards experiencing the resurrection power within your own life.

Prayer: Gracious and Compassionate Lord, I come before You with a heart yearning for renewal. In Your holy presence, grant me the courage to release every burden of unforgiveness that chains me to past hurts. Let Your resurrection power flow into my spirit, healing the wounds that divide and diminish my light. Teach me to forgive as You have forgiven, so that I may become a living testimony of Your mercy and love. Renew my inner being, that I may journey through life unburdened and free, reflecting Your grace in all I do. In the powerful and resurrected name of Jesus, I pray, Amen.

Forgiveness is both a divine mandate and a miraculous experience—a resurrection of the heart that illuminates the darkness of our past. As you step into each new day, remember that every act of forgiveness is a step toward not only healing relationships but also revitalizing your soul. Allow God’s divine renewal to transform your pain into purpose, your sorrow into strength, and your hurt into the healing evidence of His love.

Embrace this living truth: by forgiving, you are not merely releasing the past—you are actively inviting resurrection power into your present, crafting a life where every moment pulses with the promise of new beginnings and eternal hope.

THURSDAY’S PRAYER REQUESTS

Robbie Edwards – entered Heaven yesterday morning and now walking on streets of gold.

Debbie Foskey

Mike, Gwen, Michael Rice Family – Friends of Blount’s – Car Accident

Beth – A Friend Of Amy Garners – Much Better

Ann Stanley

Danny Jarrard 

Theresa Bain’s Granddaughter

Kim’s Sisters – Ann & Brenda

Angela Bryan’s Sister

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 

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 

Rose Fuller – Pruitt-Monroe Nursing Home, Forsyth GA

Scarlett – Marynell’s Granddaughter

Scott Lanier 

Steve Michaels

Tom Witcher