Pastor Steve Dow opens his message with a compelling twist on the phrase "dropping the F-bomb." He argues that while culture uses this phrase to express anger and retaliation, believers have the opportunity to drop a different kind of F-bomb—the F-bomb of forgiveness. Holding on to unforgiveness, he explains, keeps us in a state of bitterness and blocks our relationship with God. Dow outlines several key truths about forgiveness that can help us find freedom:

Forgiveness is a command from Jesus. Jesus didn't give us a choice about whether or not to forgive. He told us to forgive others so that we, in turn, can be forgiven by our Heavenly Father. Jesus himself provided the ultimate example of this when he said from the cross, "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do," even though the people crucifying him showed no remorse.

Forgiveness is a choice that sets us free. When we choose to forgive, it releases us from the painful event and the past, regardless of whether the other person ever apologizes. Forgiveness isn't about letting others off the hook; it’s about setting ourselves free.

Forgiveness is a matter of the heart. It goes beyond simply saying the words "I forgive you." It's a deep work of the Holy Spirit that transforms our hearts, moving us from a place of anger and bitterness to a place of peace.

Forgiveness is not optional for a Christian. It is a necessary part of a walk with Christ. A person who has been forgiven by God will, in turn, forgive others.

We forgive to the extent we appreciate how much we've been forgiven. The more we remember and appreciate the magnitude of God’s forgiveness toward us, the easier it is to extend that same forgiveness to others.

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