Forgiveness - Kingdom Key with Kevin Riordan

Forgiveness and Healing: Unlocking Spiritual Freedom with Jesus

A Journey to Spiritual Healing

Hey friends, it's Conrad here from ConradRocks.Net. Today, I'm diving deep into a topic that's close to my heart—forgiveness and its profound connection to healing. I recently had an incredible conversation with Kevin Riordan from Street Fisher Ministries on my show, Coffee with Conrad, and what he shared about the spiritual power of forgiveness blew me away. If you're struggling with emotional wounds or even physical ailments, and you've been seeking a supernatural breakthrough through Jesus, this post is for you. Let's unpack how letting go of unforgiveness can open the door to God's healing in ways you might never have imagined.

In this journey, we'll explore real-life stories, dive into Biblical teachings, and reflect on how the prophetic voice of God can guide us to release bitterness. Stick with me as we uncover the transformative power of forgiveness in our spiritual walk.

The Main Message: Unforgiveness Blocks Healing

The Hidden Barrier in Our Hearts

One of the most striking revelations from my interview with Kevin was how unforgiveness acts as a barrier to God's healing power. In his street ministry, Kevin often prays for the sick, witnessing supernatural miracles in the name of Jesus. But he noticed something troubling—some folks just weren't getting healed, no matter how much he prayed. When he sought the Lord for answers, the response was clear: unforgiveness. It's a spiritual block that can halt even the most fervent prayers.

Kevin explained that unforgiveness doesn't just weigh on our emotions—it can "kill a person emotionally and physically." Think about that for a moment. Holding onto resentment is like carrying a toxic burden in our souls, one that festers and impacts every part of our being. This isn't just a theory; it's a spiritual reality I've seen play out, and it's why we must address it with the help of Jesus.

Real-Life Transformation Through Forgiveness

Kevin shared a powerful story about a woman he met on the street, crippled by arthritis and barely able to walk with her walker. She revealed that her pain stemmed from years of abuse by her ex-husband, and the bitterness she held was palpable. Initially, she refused to forgive him, declaring she'd never let go of what he did. But Kevin gently explained that forgiveness isn't a feeling—it's a choice. It's about releasing ourselves from the prison of offense, not excusing the wrong done to us.

After a struggle, she chose to pray and forgive, and what happened next was nothing short of supernatural. Her body shook, she coughed up emotional baggage, and when it was over, she walked away pain-free, her walker folded over her shoulder. Friends, that's the power of forgiveness through Jesus!

Personal Reflections: My Own Encounter with Forgiveness

Hearing Kevin's stories hit close to home for me. I've walked through seasons of hurt in my own life, carrying wounds I didn't even realize were there. Like many of you, I've had moments where I thought, "I've moved on," only to find that old resentments still lingered beneath the surface. Kevin's insight that unforgiveness can manifest as anxiety or physical pain made me reflect on times when I felt weighed down without knowing why. It's a reminder of the spiritual battles we face, often unseen, but very real.

I remember a time when I had to confront a deep hurt from my past. It wasn't easy to face those memories, but as I prayed and sought Jesus for strength, I felt a prophetic nudge to let go. Choosing forgiveness didn't erase the pain overnight, but it started a healing process in my heart. Each time those memories resurfaced, I'd pray again, declaring my decision to forgive. Over time, I felt a supernatural lightness, as if a burden had been lifted.

If you're holding onto something today, I want to encourage you—it's worth taking that first step with Jesus by your side.

Biblical Teachings: Forgiveness as a Commandment

The Example of Jesus at the Cross

Kevin pointed us to the ultimate example of forgiveness—Jesus on the cross. Despite the unimaginable pain and injustice He endured, He prayed for those who crucified Him. In Luke 23:34, we read, "Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots." If Jesus could forgive in such a moment, how much more should we, who have been forgiven of our own countless sins, extend that grace to others?

Kevin reminded us that we break God's commandments daily, yet through Jesus, we receive mercy beyond measure. In Matthew 6:14-15, the Word is clear: "For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses." This isn't just a suggestion—it's a spiritual mandate. Forgiveness isn't for the other person; it's for our own heart, aligning us with God's will.

The Parable of the Unforgiving Servant

Another powerful teaching Kevin referenced was the parable of the unforgiving servant in Matthew 18. After being forgiven an enormous debt by his master, the servant refused to show mercy to someone who owed him a small amount. The consequence was severe—he was handed over to the "torturers" until he could pay.

In Matthew 18:34-35, it says, "And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him. So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses." Kevin interpreted these tormentors as supernatural forces of bitterness and demonic oppression that take hold when we refuse to forgive. This spiritual warning urges us to release offenses before they bind us.

The Process of Forgiveness: A Spiritual Discipline

Forgiveness as a Choice, Not a Feeling

One of the most liberating truths Kevin shared is that forgiveness isn't about feeling warm and fuzzy—it's a decision of the will. You don't have to "feel" like forgiving to make that choice. It's an act of obedience to God, trusting that His love will wash over the wounds in your heart. This spiritual discipline opens us up to the healing power of Jesus, even when emotions lag behind.

I've found this to be true in my own walk. There were times I had to grit my teeth, much like the woman Kevin prayed for, and declare forgiveness despite the pain. But each time I chose to align my will with God's command, I felt a prophetic shift—a sense that something supernatural was happening in my spirit.

Healing Over Time: Like Treating a Wound

Kevin offered a beautiful analogy for the process of forgiveness, comparing it to treating a physical wound. When you cut yourself, cleaning it with peroxide stings, but it's necessary to prevent infection. You have to keep tending to it daily, even when it hurts, until the wound heals. Similarly, forgiveness starts with a painful decision, and memories may resurface, requiring you to reaffirm that choice. Over time, as you apply God's love like a balm, the pain lessens, and healing comes.

This perspective has reshaped how I view forgiveness in my spiritual life. It's not a one-and-done event but a journey with Jesus. Each time a hurt comes up, I bring it before Him, choosing to let go again. If you're on this path, know that healing is possible—keep walking in faith.

Forgiving the Unforgivable: A Supernatural Challenge

One of the toughest questions I asked Kevin was how to forgive when the offense seems unforgivable—those atrocious acts that leave deep scars. His answer pointed straight to the cross. We must remember how much we've been forgiven by Jesus. Our sins, though many, have been washed away by His blood.

As it says in Ephesians 4:32, "And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you." When we grasp the magnitude of God's mercy toward us, it becomes possible, though not easy, to extend that to others.

Kevin shared a heart-wrenching story of a relative who lost a child to a drunk driver. Despite the crushing pain, she chose to confront the man in prison and forgive him, understanding that her healing depended on it. This act of supernatural grace through Jesus is a testament to the power of forgiveness as both healing and preventive medicine for our souls.

The Spiritual Strongholds of Unforgiveness

What struck me most about Kevin's ministry encounters was how he described the spiritual warfare aspect of unforgiveness. When that woman with arthritis first tried to speak forgiveness, she couldn't get the words out. Her teeth clenched, her body shook, and she began coughing violently. This wasn't just emotional resistance—it was supernatural opposition.

Kevin explained that unforgiveness creates strongholds in our hearts where demonic forces can take root. The longer we hold onto bitterness, the stronger these spiritual chains become. But here's the good news: the moment we choose to forgive in the name of Jesus, those chains are broken. The enemy loses his grip, and God's healing power can flow freely.

This revelation changed how I approach forgiveness in my own life and ministry. It's not just about emotional health—it's about spiritual warfare. When we forgive, we're literally casting down strongholds and declaring victory in Jesus' name.

Practical Steps to Walk in Forgiveness

Step 1: Acknowledge the Hurt

The first step isn't to minimize what happened or pretend it doesn't matter. God knows the depth of your pain, and He wants you to bring it honestly before Him. Like David in the Psalms, cry out to God about the injustice. He can handle your emotions.

Step 2: Make the Choice

Remember, forgiveness is a decision of the will, not a feeling. You may have to speak it out loud: "Lord, I choose to forgive [person's name] for [specific offense]. I release them to You and ask You to heal my heart."

Step 3: Repeat When Memories Surface

Don't be surprised when the hurt resurfaces. This is normal and doesn't mean you haven't truly forgiven. Simply reaffirm your choice: "I have already forgiven this. Jesus, help me walk in that forgiveness today."

Step 4: Ask for Healing

Invite the Holy Spirit to heal the wounded places in your heart. Pray for supernatural restoration and trust that God is working, even when you don't feel it immediately.

The Prophetic Call to Forgiveness

As I've reflected on Kevin's testimony and my own experiences, I sense a prophetic call from the Lord for His people to walk in radical forgiveness. In these last days, as darkness increases, the church must shine brighter with the love of Christ. We can't do that while carrying bitterness in our hearts.

I believe God is calling us to a new level of freedom—freedom from the past, freedom from offense, freedom to love like Jesus. This isn't just about individual healing, though that's important. It's about corporate breakthrough. When the body of Christ walks in forgiveness, we become a powerful witness to the world of God's transforming love.

Are you hearing this prophetic call in your own heart? Is the Holy Spirit highlighting areas where you need to forgive? Don't resist that gentle conviction—it's leading you to freedom.

Conclusion and Call to Action: Step Into Spiritual Freedom

Friends, as I reflect on my conversation with Kevin Riordan and the spiritual truths we've explored together, I'm more convinced than ever that forgiveness is a cornerstone of our walk with Jesus. It's not just about letting others off the hook—it's about freeing ourselves from the chains of bitterness so we can experience supernatural healing.

Whether you're battling emotional scars, physical ailments, or spiritual oppression, I believe a prophetic breakthrough awaits when you choose to forgive. The same power that raised Jesus from the dead is available to heal your heart and restore your soul.

I want to hear from you. Have you experienced healing through forgiveness? Are you struggling to let go of a hurt? Leave a comment below—I read every one and would love to pray with you. If this post resonated with you, don't keep it to yourself. Share it with a friend who needs this message of hope.

Let's commit to walking in forgiveness today. As Kevin prayed over that woman with arthritis, I'm praying over you right now: "Father, I ask that You release Your healing power over everyone reading this. Break every chain of unforgiveness, cast down every stronghold of bitterness, and flood their hearts with Your love. In Jesus' mighty name, Amen."

God bless you, and until next time, keep seeking the supernatural power of Christ in every area of your life.

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