About the Book
Book: Forgiveness: A Surprising Way Forward
Authors: Mark Henderson and Michael Snuffer
Genre: Non-fiction; Interpersonal Relations; Religion
Release date: April 13, 2023
WHY AM I SO MISUNDERSTOOD? I am only trying to do what is right! Of course, I forgive, but I can’t seem to get past the pain. God seems distant. Does he even care about me?
Do any of these questions hit close to home? It may surprise you that the underlying cause is often hidden unforgiveness. Our closest relationships, emotional health, and perhaps even our faith seem to be crumbling around us, but most of us have no idea that forgiveness is the way forward. If we are honest, we don’t even know what forgiveness is. We may have a vague idea that it has something to do with “forgetting” or “letting go” but would be hard-pressed to come up with a working definition. Worse yet, we have no idea how to practice forgiveness in a way that brings lasting relief from the hurt we carry. Most of us are not trying to hang on to the pain, but freedom is elusive.
Freedom from your pain is within reach! Forgiveness is not a vague, esoteric concept, nor is it a lofty, out-of-reach ideal. Forgiveness: A Surprising Way Forward digs into the biblical definition of forgiveness, tells real stories of real people who have found healing, clears up some huge misconceptions surrounding forgiveness, and teaches us how topractice forgiveness. If we do not address the wounds of our past, they will shape our future. God has provided a powerful tool to help us find freedom—forgiveness is the surprising way forward!
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My Review
As Christians, we know we are to forgive. But it can be so very hard to do. This book presents a practical view of forgiveness. It provides an understanding of the principle and a very practical set of steps to accomplish forgiveness. The authors also clarify many myths about forgiveness, such as reconciliation is required or that one has to “forgive and forget.” They are realistic too. Just because we forgive, they say, that does not mean we willingly put ourselves in harm's way.
The most helpful aspect of this book for me was about justice. When we forgive, what do we do with our God given desire for justice? The authors encourage us to leave justice in the hands of God. That takes trusting God!
This is a good book for Christians who are looking for healing of hurts, knowing that the difficult task of forgiveness is necessary. You'll read some encouraging stories of how the principles the authors put forward actually work. You'll also get a very clear method of forgiveness with actual steps. While there may not be one perfect strategy for all situations, I really appreciate the practical steps the authors offer.
My rating: 4/5 stars.
About the Authors
Mark Henderson received a Masters of Pastoral Counseling, was a licensed counselor, and served as a pastor of counseling for twenty years.In Memory of Mark Henderson
Mark David Henderson, co-author of this book, passed away from cancer as this book was being finalized. Mark was a loving husband, father, and friend. He touched lives all over the world through his counseling ministry and often said he had a front row seat to God’s miracles. He always made sure the individual knew it was God’s healing, and Mark was simply the servant. His desire was to take what he learned and share it with others, which is the reason for this book.
Michael Snuffer has ministered as a counselor for more than ten years. Mark and Mike founded Equip2CounselTM, a ministry dedicated to providing simple yet powerful counseling tools globally to ministers.
More from Michael
Challenging relationships, frustration with unfair treatment, bursts of anger, and disconnection from God are persistent problems for individuals who carry burdens from their past. Most are unaware unforgiveness is an underlying cause. Time, by itself, rarely brings healing. Instead, the wounds fester and become more painful. Many feel stuck and see no way forward to joy and peace. For most, forgiveness is the first step to healing.
Modern culture and thinking have muddled the meaning of forgiveness. Most don’t understand what forgiveness is or how to practice it. The result? Relief remains out of reach. Forgiveness is a powerful tool which brings healing and freedom.
Mark and I launched the Equip2Counsel™ ministry to provide powerful counseling tools which bring healing to hurting individuals around the world. We soon realized the limitations of in-person training and began to consider how written materials could extend the reach of these tools. We wrote Forgiveness: A Surprising Way Forward to provide a clear, step-by-step process. We wanted to share the stories of real people who found hope and healing through forgiveness. Whether you are a hurting individual or a counselor helping others, we hope many learn and apply the practice of forgiveness which brings freedom.
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(My star ratings: 5-I love it, 4-I like it, 3-It's OK, 2-I don't like it, 1-I hate it.)
5 comments:
Thank You for the review.
Marilyn
Thank you for sharing your review of Forgiveness: A Surprising Way Forward, this sounds like a book that I should read
Thank you for the review.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts. Forgiveness sounds like powerful resource.
This is something I definitely need to read.
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