A Silent Killer of the Soul
By Bishop Jerry Pena, God’s anointed servant
Unforgiveness reopens old wounds. Instead of healing, the pain festers, turning into bitterness. Hebrews 12:15 warns: “See to it that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many.”
Refusing to forgive blocks spiritual growth. Prayer becomes hindered (Mark 11:25), worship feels dry, and hearing God’s voice becomes difficult.
Unforgiveness creates walls where there should be bridges. Families are divided, friendships destroyed, and churches weakened because of grudges that could have been released.
Paul warns in 2 Corinthians 2:10–11 that refusing to forgive gives Satan an advantage over us. The devil thrives in resentment, but he loses power when forgiveness flows.
You may not feel like forgiving, but obedience comes before emotion. Forgiveness is an act of the will aligned with God’s command.
Be specific: “Lord, I forgive [name] for [what they did].” Naming it breaks the secrecy of the wound.
Forgiveness doesn’t deny justice—it hands justice over to God. “It is mine to avenge; I will repay, says the Lord.” (Romans 12:19).
Jesus said, “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” (Matthew 5:44). Prayer softens your heart and releases blessing where there was once bitterness.
Forgiveness is not just saying, “I forgive you.” It is demonstrated by treating the offender with grace, even if trust takes time to rebuild.
Imagine a believer who faithfully attends church but refuses to forgive a family member who betrayed them. Outwardly, they seem strong, but inwardly, they are restless, bitter, and spiritually dry. Once they finally release forgiveness, peace floods their soul, prayer becomes alive, and their relationships begin to heal. The sting of unforgiveness is replaced with the sweetness of God’s love.
Heavenly Father, I come before You acknowledging the sting of unforgiveness in my life. I have carried wounds that weigh down my spirit and rob me of peace. Today, I choose to forgive those who have wronged me. I release them into Your hands, and I thank you for healing my hurts and bitterness. Fill me with the same grace and mercy You have shown me and let Your love flow through me freely. Break every chain of resentment, and restore joy, peace, and wholeness in my life. In Jesus’ mighty name, Amen.
✨ Amen!
Remember:
You must forgive as the Lord forgave you
When we discuss tithing, the most important question isn’t “How much?” or “Why me?” but rather “Who is asking?” This simple question transforms our entire perspective and reveals the true nature of tithing.
“If anyone comes to me and does not hate father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters—yes, even their own life—such a person cannot be my disciple.
Your spouse is not the enemy (Eph 6:12). God may use this season to form Christ in you while He draws them. Keep honor high, set loving boundaries, fight the right war in prayer, and protect the atmosphere of your home.
