Relentless Love: Embracing Forgiveness and Full Surrender

Summary

God’s love is relentless and unwavering, no matter where we find ourselves or what we’ve done. Even when we walk away, misunderstand, or even blame Him, God’s love pursues us—He is before us, behind us, and beside us, ensuring our safety and well-being. His blessings and mercy are not contingent on our perfection, but on His faithfulness. Reflecting on the journey of our church, we’ve seen God’s provision in miraculous ways, from acquiring and paying off our building to sustaining us through the pandemic. These testimonies are not just for the church as an institution, but for each of us individually—what God has done for us corporately, He desires to do in your life as well.

God’s faithfulness calls us to respond with gratitude, trust, and generosity. We honor Him not just with our words, but with our giving, our stewardship, and our willingness to be a blessing to others. The principle of tithing, saving, and living within our means is not just a church policy, but a spiritual discipline that positions us for God’s continued provision and for opportunities we could never anticipate.

But life is not just about provision; it’s also about relationships and the inevitable pain that comes with them. Offense is unavoidable, but living offended is a choice. The call is to live without offense—not by denying pain, but by refusing to let it imprison us. Revenge and resentment only keep us trapped, rehearsing our wounds and forfeiting our peace. Instead, we are called to forgive, not because others deserve it, but because we have been forgiven. Forgiveness is a process: acknowledging the hurt, counting the cost, understanding the offender, expressing our pain in healthy ways, and ultimately letting go—not always to restore the relationship, but to secure our own freedom.

There is a spiritual battle for our allegiance—a custody battle for our hearts. The enemy is content with joint custody, with us being half-committed, but God desires all of us. The invitation is to break free from divided loyalties, to go “all in” with God, surrendering every part of our lives to Him. When we do, we step into the fullness of His purpose, provision, and peace.

Key Takeaways

- God’s Love Is Unconditional and Persistent
No matter how far we stray, how angry or confused we become, God’s love remains steadfast. He is always present—before, behind, and beside us—protecting and guiding us, even when we don’t recognize it. His faithfulness is not dependent on our actions, but on His unchanging character. This relentless love is the foundation for our security and hope. [12:57]

- Provision Follows Obedience and Generosity
God’s provision often shows up most powerfully when we step out in faith, even when the math doesn’t add up. The discipline of tithing, saving, and living within our means creates space for God to move miraculously in our finances and opportunities. When we honor God with our resources, He multiplies them for our good and for the blessing of others. [34:59]

- Living Without Offense Requires Intentional Forgiveness
Offense is inevitable, but living offended is a choice. Forgiveness is not a one-time act, but a process that involves acknowledging the hurt, counting the cost, and choosing to release the offender—not for their sake, but for our own freedom. We forgive because we have been forgiven, and holding on to resentment only keeps us imprisoned. [01:05:18]

- Budget Grace for Others’ Faults
Just as we budget financially for unexpected expenses, we must budget emotionally and spiritually for the faults and failures of others. Making allowance for people’s shortcomings means we anticipate imperfection and respond with grace rather than outrage. This proactive grace keeps our hearts light and our relationships healthy, preventing small offenses from becoming major wounds. [01:06:21]

- Break Free from Divided Loyalties—Go All In with God
There is a spiritual battle for our hearts, and the enemy is content with us being half-committed. God, however, desires our full devotion. Surrendering every part of our lives—our plans, ambitions, and hurts—breaks the cycle of joint custody and positions us for breakthrough, purpose, and true freedom. The world changes when we are fully surrendered to God. [01:32:10]

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Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[12:57] - God’s Relentless Love and Presence
[33:29] - Testimony: God’s Provision for Our Church
[34:59] - The Miracle of Debt Cancellation
[36:10] - The Law of Proximity and Blessing
[43:25] - God Is Everything: Worship and Perspective
[44:06] - New Outreach: Zion on the Pando App
[45:57] - Honoring God Through Giving
[47:10] - God’s Blessing in Difficult Seasons
[48:15] - The Table in the Presence of Enemies
[50:49] - Stewardship: The 10-10-80 Principle
[51:50] - Tribal Moment: Processing Betrayal
[59:10] - Foundation Verse: Living Without Offense
[01:05:18] - The Process and Power of Forgiveness
[01:21:56] - The Custody Battle for Your Heart
[01:32:10] - Breaking Joint Custody: Full Surrender
[01:34:12] - Declaration: I Belong to God
[01:36:39] - Next Steps and Closing

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide

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### Bible Reading

Colossians 3:13 (ESV)
> "bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive."

Proverbs 19:11 (ESV)
> "Good sense makes one slow to anger, and it is his glory to overlook an offense."

Psalm 23:5-6 (ESV)
> "You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever."

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### Observation Questions

1. According to Colossians 3:13, what two actions are believers commanded to take when someone offends them?
2. In Proverbs 19:11, what is described as a person’s “glory” when it comes to handling offenses?
3. In Psalm 23:5-6, where does God prepare a table for us, and what does this setting teach us about God’s provision and presence?
4. The sermon described God as being “before us, behind us, and beside us.” What does this say about God’s involvement in our daily lives? [[12:57]]

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### Interpretation Questions

1. The sermon says, “Offense is inevitable, but living offended is a choice.” What does it mean to make allowance for others’ faults, and how does this relate to the process of forgiveness? [[01:06:21]]
2. Why do you think the Bible connects our ability to forgive others with the forgiveness we have received from God? [[01:05:18]]
3. The pastor shared that God’s provision often comes when we step out in faith, even when “the math doesn’t add up.” How does this principle challenge the way we think about generosity and stewardship? [[34:59]]
4. The sermon talked about a “custody battle” for our hearts, with the enemy content with “joint custody.” What does it look like to be “all in” with God, and why is half-hearted commitment so dangerous? [[01:32:10]]

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### Application Questions

1. The sermon encouraged us to “budget grace” for the faults and failures of others, just like we budget for unexpected expenses. Who in your life do you need to make more allowance for, and what would it look like to proactively extend grace to them this week? [[01:06:21]]
2. Think of a time when you were deeply hurt or offended. Using the steps from the sermon (acknowledge the hurt, count the cost, understand the offender, express your pain, let go), which step is hardest for you, and why? What’s one practical thing you can do to move forward in forgiveness? [[01:12:29]]
3. The pastor said, “We forgive not because others deserve it, but because we have been forgiven.” Is there someone you are struggling to forgive? How does remembering God’s forgiveness toward you help you take a step toward releasing them? [[01:05:18]]
4. The sermon shared how God provided for the church in miraculous ways when the church practiced tithing, saving, and living within its means. How are you currently honoring God with your finances? Is there a next step you feel challenged to take in generosity or stewardship? [[50:49]]
5. The message warned about the danger of living with “joint custody”—being half-committed to God. Are there areas of your life where you are holding back from God? What would it look like for you to go “all in” this season? [[01:32:10]]
6. The pastor said, “Don’t let someone rob you of weeks, months, or years of your life by holding onto offense.” Is there a situation or relationship where you need to stop rehearsing the hurt and start rejoicing in how God has brought you through? What’s one way you can shift your focus this week? [[01:10:29]]
7. The sermon described God’s love as relentless and unwavering, no matter what we’ve done. When was a time you felt far from God, and how did you experience His love pursuing you? How can you remind yourself of His faithfulness in your current season? [[12:57]]

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Devotional

Day 1: God’s Relentless Love and Presence
No matter how far you stray or how much you struggle, God’s love and presence remain steadfast, surrounding you on every side. He is in front of you, behind you, and beside you, guiding and protecting you through every valley and shadow. Even when you are angry, confused, or distant, His goodness and mercy are still chasing you down, and His promises never fail. You can rest in the assurance that God is always with you, loving you unconditionally and working for your good, even when you don’t feel worthy or faithful. [12:57]

Psalm 23:4,6 (ESV)
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. … Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

Reflection: When was the last time you felt alone or misunderstood? How can you intentionally remind yourself today that God is right beside you, loving you and guiding you, no matter what?


Day 2: Forgiveness: The Pathway to Freedom
Forgiveness is not just a command but a gift you give yourself, freeing you from the prison of offense and resentment. The Bible teaches that offense is inevitable, but you don’t have to live in it. By making allowance for others’ faults and forgiving anyone who offends you, you reflect the forgiveness God has given you. This means budgeting grace in advance, letting go of the urge for revenge, and choosing to release the hurt so you can walk in peace and freedom. Remember, you forgive not because others deserve it, but because you have been forgiven much. [01:06:21]

Colossians 3:13 (NLT)
Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others.

Reflection: Who is one person you need to forgive today, even if they haven’t apologized? What step can you take right now to begin releasing that offense to God?


Day 3: God Prepares Blessings in the Presence of Your Enemies
God’s blessings are not always delivered in comfortable circumstances; sometimes, He prepares a table for you right in front of those who oppose or misunderstand you. It can be hard to celebrate your blessings when others are watching with envy or disapproval, but God calls you to focus on His provision, not on your critics. Don’t let the presence of haters distract you from the joy and abundance God has set before you. Instead, learn to enjoy His goodness, knowing that your blessing is a testimony of His faithfulness, not a response to others’ opinions. [47:10]

Psalm 23:5 (ESV)
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.

Reflection: Is there an area of your life where you’ve been hesitant to enjoy God’s blessings because of what others might think? How can you shift your focus from your critics to God’s goodness today?


Day 4: Break Free from Joint Custody—Go All In with God
There is a spiritual battle over your life, and the enemy is content with you being half-committed, living with divided loyalties. God, however, has paid the ultimate price to be your Father and desires your full devotion. Half-stepping in your faith robs you and others of the fruit God wants to bring through your life. Today, you are invited to break free from “joint custody” and declare that you are all in with God—surrendering every part of your life, your gifts, your dreams, and your future to Him. [01:32:10]

Joshua 24:15 (ESV)
And if it is evil in your eyes to serve the Lord, choose this day whom you will serve… But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.

Reflection: What is one area of your life where you’ve been holding back from God? What would it look like to surrender that area fully to Him today?


Day 5: Letting Go and Wishing Well—The Power of Boundaries and Blessing
Forgiveness does not always mean restoring a relationship to what it once was; sometimes, wisdom requires healthy boundaries. True freedom comes when you can let go of resentment, wish the other person well, and move forward in peace—even if the relationship changes or ends. Wishing someone well, even from a distance, is not about excusing their actions but about protecting your own heart and emotional freedom. The more you release hatred, the more you experience God’s peace and blessing in your own life. [01:20:30]

Romans 12:18-21 (ESV)
If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” To the contrary, “if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

Reflection: Is there someone you need to set a healthy boundary with, while still wishing them well? How can you pray for their good and release them to God today?

Quotes

God is not beefing with you. Let me tell you something about God. You can disobey God. He still loves you. How many people know that? You can walk away from God. He still loves you. You walk away from God. He's following you. What you doing? Just making sure you're good. Oh, y 'all don't feel me here. And I'm going to get in front of you so you don't walk into nothing. And I'm going to be beside you because you walk through the shadow of the valley of death. You don't have to fear no evil because I'm still with you. I will never break my promise. I'm watching over you. I'm in front of you. I'm beside you. I'm behind you. [00:12:35] (00:00:40 seconds)  #GodsUnfailingLove Edit Clip

The Bible even teaches that offense is going to happen in this life. So when we talk about living without offense, it doesn't mean you don't get offended. It means you don't stay offended. I'm not going to live in this thing. I'm not going to dwell on it. It is about developing the skills to say, how can I untangle myself from the deepest of hurts, even the one you just shared in this circle? How do I get out of that? That's how you live without offense. [01:06:01] (00:00:23 seconds)  #GraceBudgetForFaults Edit Clip

Whenever I speak somewhere and I travel and it's out of the area, when I go to speak for an organization or a church, they usually pay for the hotel room where I stay. So now when I go to the desk and I check in, the room is paid for. But if they didn't leave a credit card, the organization didn't leave a credit card on file, then the people at the front desk want me to give them a credit card. And that credit card is for what they call incidentals. How many people know what I'm talking about? That's when you put a credit card on to cover what you do beyond what's already paid for. It's coverage. Watch this. Watch this. It covers you. For what you're going to do beyond what it's been paid for. And what you're doing is when you set your life up with a matter of grace, you are creating space for incidentals. [01:08:44] (00:00:50 seconds)  #RejoiceInSurvival Edit Clip

Stop rehearsing what they did and start rejoicing over how you survived it and how God protected you and how God has blessed you. See, you can't, this is the thing, it takes a long time to get bad stuff out. And the way you get bad thoughts and memories out is you replace them with new thoughts. You can't just flush it out because it's in your long-term memory. So what you do is every time you think about what they did, say, Lord, but I thank you for what you did. I thank you for your goodness. I thank you that you protected me. I thank you for how you covered me. I thank you for how I survived all of that. I thank you that what they meant for evil, you meant for good in my life. [01:10:48] (00:00:37 seconds)  #SmileDespiteHurt Edit Clip

Some of us don't like to admit this, but we are better people because we got offended. I say you're better because of it. You know how to treat people better now. You treat people different because of the way you were treated. How many people understand that? You don't just learn the right way to do things. You learn the wrong way to do them so you won't do that. So it's a blessing that you got that kind of pain because you will go out of your way to not do that to somebody else. It made you better. [01:18:27] (00:00:27 seconds)  #HatredIsSelfImprisonment Edit Clip