NW Valley Times

Noe Garcia, pastor of North Phoenix Baptist Church, addressed Grand Canyon University students at a Monday Chapel held in the Global Credit Union Arena. With the semester nearing its end, Garcia emphasized the importance of forgiveness as a path to emotional and spiritual liberation.

"Nothing else will drain you spiritually, emotionally and physically than the bondage of unforgiveness," Garcia remarked. He explained that holding onto grudges can lead to anxiety, depression, and resentment, which can spiritually dry a person out. He stressed the importance of releasing these feelings to experience healing through Jesus.

Highlighting the Sermon on the Mount, Garcia mentioned Jesus' solution to pain and betrayal was not revenge, as the Old Testament suggests, but rather forgiveness and letting go. "Don't feed the offense" and "release them," Garcia urged, stating that this was crucial to breaking the chains of unforgiveness.

Garcia noted that Jesus' teachings often went against popular feelings at the time, specifically regarding retaliation, referencing Matthew 5:40, which encourages offering more than required to settle disputes. He suggested that going beyond what is expected is key to resolving conflict.

Drawing on personal experiences, Garcia shared his journey to forgiveness after years of holding onto anger and pain caused by a critic's hurtful comments. He said that it took him two years of consistent effort and prayer to forgive the individual, reinforcing the message that forgiveness is a process rather than an instantaneous act.

Garcia also shared challenges he faced earlier in his life, including resisting the pressure of negative influences, which he attributes to his faith. In a closing remark, Garcia highlighted that true freedom comes through understanding and applying biblical principles, fostering a deeper relationship with Christ.

The next Chapel is scheduled for April 7 at the Global Credit Union Arena.