Forgiveness from the Heart: The Key to Freedom and Healing

This past Sunday, Pastor Victor Otieno Odhiambo, of Bethel Fellowship Centre and President of Jehovah Saints International in Kenya, delivered a powerful and healing message centered on the transformative gift of forgiveness. Drawing from the teachings of both Jesus and the apostle Paul, Pastor Victor invited the church to examine their hearts and embrace the kind of forgiveness that sets both the offended and the offender free.

Letting Go of Grudges and Embracing Grace

Pastor Victor began by reading from Colossians 3:13:

“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”

He explained that forgiveness isn't merely about keeping the peace—it’s about imitating the heart of God. Just as Christ graciously forgave us, we are called to forgive others—not because they deserve it, but because He forgave us when we didn’t deserve it either. Holding on to bitterness only poisons our soul and hinders our spiritual growth. Forgiveness, on the other hand, is like taking the weight off your chest and allowing healing to begin.

Kindness, Compassion, and Mercy in Action

Next, Pastor Victor reflected on Ephesians 4:32, which says:

“And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.”

This verse reminds us that forgiveness isn't cold or mechanical—it flows from a tender heart. Real forgiveness requires kindness and compassion. Pastor Victor emphasized that God's forgiveness is rooted in mercy, and as His children, our response must reflect His nature. It doesn't mean forgetting the hurt, but rather choosing to release the offense and let love win.

“Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.” — Matthew 5:7

The Seriousness of Unforgiveness

One of the most sobering points Pastor Victor shared came from Matthew 6:14–15, where Jesus said:

“For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.”

These are strong words that leave no room for compromise. Pastor Victor made it clear: unforgiveness blocks your own forgiveness. When we withhold grace, we step out of alignment with God’s mercy toward us. Forgiveness isn’t optional in the Kingdom—it’s a command and an act of obedience that leads to freedom.

Why Forgiveness Matters

Forgiveness doesn’t mean what happened was okay. It means you are choosing to heal rather than stay chained to the pain. Pastor Victor reminded us that the cross was the ultimate act of forgiveness—Jesus forgave even as He was being crucified.

“Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do.” — Luke 23:34

We’ve all been hurt in life, but we’ve also all hurt others. We live in need of grace, and we’re called to extend that same grace. Forgiveness is a gift we give ourselves as much as others—it frees us from resentment, renews relationships, and unlocks the door to God's blessings.

Prayer of Response:   Lord, help me to forgive as You have forgiven me. Soften my heart, remove bitterness, and fill me with compassion. Let me love even those who’ve wounded me, and may Your grace overflow in me toward others.

Conclusion: Join Us in Bringing Hope to the Homeless

At Jehovah Saints, we are committed to being the hands and feet of Christ by providing safe shelters, warm meals, and hope to those in need. Our mission to build homeless shelters around the world is inspired by Jesus’ words: “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me” (Matthew 25:40).

This is more than just a project—it’s a movement of love, compassion, and transformation. With your support, we can expand this mission and provide a place of refuge for countless individuals and families who are struggling. Together, we can make a difference and shine the light of Christ in the darkest corners of the world.

How You Can Help:

• Pray for our mission and for the homeless communities we serve.

• Spread the Word by sharing this initiative with your friends, family, and church community.

• Donate to help us build more shelters and provide essential resources for those in need.

Every donation, no matter how big or small, brings us one step closer to changing lives. Click the button below to make a contribution and be part of this life-changing mission.

Donate Now

Thank you for your generosity and for standing with Jehovah Saints as we answer God’s call to care for the homeless. Together, we can build not only shelters but also hope, dignity, and a brighter future for those in need.

God Bless!