Episode #57 | Forgiveness: How Do We Get Out of the Cage of Unforgiveness | Special Guest Jay Cookingham

#57 – Forgiveness 

How do I get out of the Cage of Unforgiveness

Guest:  Jay Cookingham 

Act Like Men – Men’s Leadership Podcast

Sponsored by Men’s Ministry Catalyst

Podcast Show Notes 

Jay Cookingham in his book entitled Uncaged – Living a Life of Freedom says “Forgiveness has enabled me to live the life God has intended for me, which is so much more than being “saved”. It is a calling to become someone. I can become the husband, the father, the brother, the son, and the man God designed to be because I am forgiven”.

Take time to listen to Jay’s story of God’s grace and man’s depravity.  The great news is that God’s grace is greater than any cage in which you may find yourself.    

Some key points are: 

• The most powerful cages are the ones where you don’t even know you are locked up.    
• The first one uncaged is always the one who forgives. 
• Forgiveness is necessary for freedom. 

What do we know about forgiveness?  Jay lists 14 things about forgiveness that show how important.   Here are just 5 of his key points: 

• Forgiveness is a decision of our will. 
• Forgiveness is not denial. 
• Forgiveness does not mean being a doormat.  
• Forgiveness does not require the one who hurt you to be involved.  
• Forgiveness is not a lack of anger.  
• And so many more… 

Where do we go from here?  

• If you are in denial about your cage – call it what it is so God can help you get out of the cage. 
• Recognize that any shame you carry is a trick of the enemy to keep you caged. 
• Who do I know who will have my back and help me walk through forgiveness? 
• This is not a one-and-done process.  Forgiveness from God to us is daily – forgiveness from us to others is also daily.  

To reach Jay Cookingham or any of his books, including the one we talked through today: Uncaged Living a Life of Freedom resources, go to:  https://jaycookingham.com/books/

Just a reminder these podcasts are released on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month.   For additional podcasts go to: https://mensministrycatalyst.org/podcasts/