The Faces of Forgiveness Book Review for Book Crash Book Review Program


When I think of the action of forgiveness,   phrases such as  "I am sorry" I didn't mean it."  "I am so sorry" come to mind. Then, afterward a hug and smile follow.  Then it is all over. And we can get on with our lives as if it never happened right?

Well, Forgiveness is more than Just I am sorry. It has many layers. It is complicated. It is more than just what it seems. In his book, "Faces of Forgiveness: Healing for the Hearts We Feel" Dr. David Christensen takes a closer look at what forgiveness really means.

What is forgiveness?
The action or process of forgiving or being forgiven. It is being resolved of the action that caused the rift in the relationship or friendship. Then, all involved are OK, And life can get along as usual. But forgiveness is more than I am sorry.

What forgiveness is not, is First, It is not an absolution, It does not mean one is absolved from all consequences or behavior. 2nd, It does not mean a reunion. It does not mean we can enter a new and much better closer relationship of intimacy. It is not equated with reconciliation. 3rd, Forgiveness is not a conclusion to the matter.  The slate is not wiped clean. The objective has not been attained.  4th, Forgiveness does not mean forgetting the past. Forgiveness does not mean one can leave it all behind them and never mention it again. Forgiveness foes not mean the sin is not spoken of again. Hiding the past involves denial.  A denial of the past is a denial of God. And the journey that God has called one to live. God would not remember your sins, why would you remember others? (pages 17-21).

" The  Five Truths of Forgiveness"
First, Forgiveness begins with God's grace. Christians have to forgive God commanded it.  When we tells God one is sorry He must forgive because he is a God of grace and love. We are all sinners. If you do not accept me back, then you are self-righteous. (p. 56).   2nd, We cannot forgive What we do not blame. There is nothing to forgive if there is no one to blame. To forgive without blame is logically impossible. We must mot judge we can forgive. We must assign  blame before we can forgive the blame.   3rd, The forgiver always pays the price of forgiving. God charges himself the price to forgive us. God paid Himself to forgive our sins. To forgive myself is to retain the debt. (p.60).

The basis of all forgiveness is the cross. God cannot forgive us unconditionally because to do so would violate  his own character. He would no longer be a  just God.  He is also perfect love.  For God to be both just and forgiving he must pay the debt Himself. Lastly, Christ's suffering is the foundation for our healing. 5th, and finally, Forgiveness lets go of what was to make way for what can be. The gift of forgiveness is what releases  us from the past. (p. 62).

 Forgiveness is a healing process. It is God's grace.


"FTC Disclaimer- "I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and I am not required to provide a positive review. All opinions are solely therein my own." "I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC Title 16, Part 255, "Guidelines Concerning the use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

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