The Power of Forgiveness Day 2: The Cost of Bitterness
Just as we must act on Scripture’s instruction to forgive, we should also consider the great cost of failing to do so.
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Just as we must act on Scripture’s instruction to forgive, we should also consider the great cost of failing to do so.
Are the temps too hot where you live? Perhaps the rain has messed up your plans for the day. Or maybe it’s too windy for you to be out on the lake. Chris Bruin explains that the weather is an easy target for complaining. Since God controls the elements, we should be grateful for what He has intended for us each day. This life lesson applies to whatever circumstances we experience, not just the climate.
The ocean embodies a profound contrast: beautiful yet tumultuous, life-giving yet perilous. Its vast expanse can inspire tranquility, but its depths harbor untold dangers. Chris Bruin shares how Scripture affirms God’s sovereignty over the seas, from His command to divide the waters at creation to His power to calm storms.
Just as the bitter chill of winter can freeze the world around us, our hearts can grow cold toward God when we drift away from Him. Neglecting prayer and His Word—and allowing distractions to take priority—can leave us feeling distant and numb. Chris Bruin reminds us that just as spring renews the earth, God’s love can thaw even the coldest heart, drawing us back into a vibrant, life-giving relationship with Him.
Raging wildfires are devastating, but they play a critical role in forest ecology and renewal. Fire clears out undergrowth, releases nutrients back into the soil, and triggers the germination of fire-dependent species. Chris Bruin explains how, in a similar way, the challenges and hardships we face are beneficial in the long run because they force us to reassess our priorities, strengthen our resolve, and deepen our faith.
In Psalm 121, we are reminded that the Lord is our protector, covering us—as shade from the scorching sun. Chris Bruin reminds us that trusting in God means finding refuge under His care, knowing He is guiding our steps now and always. This assurance allows us to walk through life confidently, secure in His unfailing love and constant vigilance.
Imagine walking through life without a care in the world when, out of nowhere, a giant obstacle appears and there’s no way around it. Perhaps it’s a financial issue, a medical problem, or a family conflict. Whatever the case, the challenge looks massive, and no viable solution appears to exist. Chris Bruin explains that these challenges are never too significant for God, and he shows how we can respond.
Parents must understand the difference between willful defiance and childish irresponsibility. Kids make mistakes all the time because they lack the maturity to make wise decisions. Their blunders require softer correction, but name-calling, temper tantrums, and other forms of disrespect from a child is prohibited and needs to be handled differently. Brenen and Morgan Beeler explain what distinguishes a simple misstep from contempt, and they provide examples for how to discipline in each circumstance.
When our spouse fails us or makes a mistake, it’s natural to respond with harsh, critical words. But this can drive a wedge between us that harms our marriage. In their new video, Brennen and Morgan Beeler explain a better way, which can encourage security and trust. This powerful suggestion is based on the devotional “Error or Opportunity?” which is on page 168 of Dr. James and Shirley Dobson’s book Night Light for Couples.
Parents are motivated by love when they try to protect their kids from emotional pain. This is a natural response, but it can go too far by hindering proper development. In this video, Brenen and Morgan Beeler discuss how moms and dads need to pray for wisdom to discern when they should try to shield their children, and when it’s better to let them experience adversity, which encourages growth.



