I wrote this book to help individuals find freedom in forgiveness. This book is also designed to help others understand the magnitude of God's love for them in spite of past mistakes and sins. I have repeatedly learned over the years that God loves us no matter the mistakes or sins we have made in the past. He especially wants us to let go of those who hurt us, forgive them and set ourselves free to live life to the fullest.
From my own journey with forgiveness, I realized that things were not working in my life because I had not dealt with unforgiveness in my heart. Furthermore, I realized you must deal with it in order to heal and move forward in life. Matthew 6:14-15 (NIV) states, "For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your Heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins." Often our blessings from God are held up because we have unforgiveness in our hearts. It is up to you to release it. Some of you may be asking yourself: how can I forgive someone who has hurt me? Why should I forgive them? What are the steps to forgive? So I am expected to forgive and forget what a person did to me? Who benefits from me forgiving someone? How do I forgive? How can I forgive myself when I did something so bad? Why am I required to forgive? What are the benefits? Why does it matter so much? What if I am the one seeking forgiveness and the person does not accept it? Why am I required to forgive when I was not the one who caused the issue?
I understand your questions and concerns. I had to deal with these same thoughts and concerns when I began the process of forgiveness. Throughout this book, I will share my personal journey to finding my freedom in forgiveness. It is my prayer and hope that you will FIND YOUR FREEDOM IN FORGIVENESS too!
~LaRonda Hannans Howard, CPLC, MPH
CEO and Founder of HOPE Empowerment Resources, LLC
