About the Book

Book: Forgiveness: A Surprising Way Forward

Authors: Mark Henderson and Michael Snuffer

Genre: Non-fiction; Interpersonal Relations; Religion

Release date: April 13, 2023

WHY AM I SO MISUNDERSTOOD? I am only trying to do what is right! Of course, I forgive, but I can’t seem to get past the pain. God seems distant. Does he even care about me?

Do any of these questions hit close to home? It may surprise you that the underlying cause is often hidden unforgiveness. Our closest relationships, emotional health, and perhaps even our faith seem to be crumbling around us, but most of us have no idea that forgiveness is the way forward. If we are honest, we don’t even know what forgiveness is. We may have a vague idea that it has something to do with “forgetting” or “letting go” but would be hard-pressed to come up with a working definition. Worse yet, we have no idea how to practice forgiveness in a way that brings lasting relief from the hurt we carry. Most of us are not trying to hang on to the pain, but freedom is elusive.

Freedom from your pain is within reach! Forgiveness is not a vague, esoteric concept, nor is it a lofty, out-of-reach ideal. Forgiveness: A Surprising Way Forward digs into the biblical definition of forgiveness, tells real stories of real people who have found healing, clears up some huge misconceptions surrounding forgiveness, and teaches us how topractice forgiveness. If we do not address the wounds of our past, they will shape our future. God has provided a powerful tool to help us find freedom—forgiveness is the surprising way forward!

Click here to get your copy!

About the Authors

Mark Henderson received a Masters of Pastoral Counseling, was a licensed counselor, and served as a pastor of counseling for twenty years.

In Memory of Mark Henderson

Mark David Henderson, co-author of this book, passed away from cancer as this book was being finalized. Mark was a loving husband, father, and friend. He touched lives all over the world through his counseling ministry and often said he had a front row seat to God’s miracles. He always made sure the individual knew it was God’s healing, and Mark was simply the servant. His desire was to take what he learned and share it with others, which is the reason for this book.

Michael Snuffer has ministered as a counselor for more than ten years. Mark and Mike founded Equip2CounselTM, a ministry dedicated to providing simple yet powerful counseling tools globally to ministers.

More from Michael

Challenging relationships, frustration with unfair treatment, bursts of anger, and disconnection from God are persistent problems for individuals who carry burdens from their past. Most are unaware unforgiveness is an underlying cause. Time, by itself, rarely brings healing. Instead, the wounds fester and become more painful. Many feel stuck and see no way forward to joy and peace. For most, forgiveness is the first step to healing.

Modern culture and thinking have muddled the meaning of forgiveness. Most don’t understand what forgiveness is or how to practice it. The result? Relief remains out of reach. Forgiveness is a powerful tool which brings healing and freedom.

Mark and I launched the Equip2Counsel™ ministry to provide powerful counseling tools which bring healing to hurting individuals around the world. We soon realized the limitations of in-person training and began to consider how written materials could extend the reach of these tools. We wrote Forgiveness: A Surprising Way Forward to provide a clear, step-by-step process. We wanted to share the stories of real people who found hope and healing through forgiveness. Whether you are a hurting individual or a counselor helping others, we hope many learn and apply the practice of forgiveness which brings freedom.

Author Interview with Michael

What was one of the most surprising things you learned in creating your book?

I was surprised how difficult it is to create a clear and readable text. Mark and I completed the entire book and multiple edits. Then we realized we needed to re-organize the entire book and re-write several chapters. I think the manuscript has been through at least 8 rounds of edits to prepare it for final print.

At the same time, I was also surprised how much I enjoyed the process. While there were moments of frustration, there is also a sense of satisfaction making improvements which clarify concepts and will benefit readers.
Do you hear from your readers much? What kinds of things do they say?

Readers tell us the stories in our book are realistic, raw, and provide hope that God can heal their situations. Several were surprised how the book exposed their own thinking patterns which trick them into holding on to unforgiveness. Others appreciate the book’s step-by-step approach. They tell us the book stands out because the path to freedom is explained as a simple process anyone can put into practice.

This is my first book, though, so I look forward to hearing how it impacts the lives of many other readers!

How do you overcome writer’s block? Do you have any advice for others in finding their process to overcome it?

For me, writers block means knowing exactly what I want to say and having no idea how to communicate it effectively. When I feel stuck, I jot down a rough outline and then move on to the next section or chapter. I need to let the concepts simmer and bounce around in the back of my head for a while. Sometimes an idea will come at some random moment of inspiration. Other times I just need to jump in, put some words down on paper, and then edit it repeatedly until I have a product I believe will connect with my readers.

Bringing simple clarity to spiritual and emotional concepts is extremely challenging. I think this shows the absolute brilliance of Jesus’ parables and teaching in the gospels. I wish I discovered the “special sauce” for overcoming writer’s block, but sometimes it’s just hard work!
Do you read the genre you write? Why or why not?

I enjoy all kinds of books: fiction, theology, philosophy, and yes—I read other self-help books. The reason is simple: I still need help! Personal growth is a life-long pursuit, and I learn from the experiences and wisdom of others who are on the same journey.
How did you come up with the title for your book?

A group of friends and family were brainstorming title ideas. I asked the question, “Is there something about forgiveness our readers will connect with?”

My daughter’s response was unexpected yet insightful, “Are people even aware they need to forgive?”

I immediately knew she was right! Most who are stuck in unforgiveness have no idea this is causing many of their personal struggles. Few recognize forgiveness as the first step back to wholeness and the abundant life Jesus promises. I immediately jotted down the words, “A Surprising Way Forward,” and eventually this stuck as the final sub-title for the book.
What’s your favorite writing snack, drink, and/or music?

Definitely coffee. I get so focused when I am “in the zone,” I forget about things like nourishment. A cup of coffee, though, will keep me going for a while.
What is the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given about writing?

It is so difficult to narrow down to one thing. One that stands out, though, is to eliminate extra words. A sentence like, “He had finally been able to see the way,” is much more readable as, “He saw the way.” Both sentences communicate the same message. Most of the other words are unnecessary and make reading more difficult. I find myself eliminating lots of extraneous helping words and “-ly” adverbs in the edit process.
Do you participate in writing challenges on social media? Why or why not?

I have not participated in writing challenges. My current responsibilities include running a software business, a family, counseling ministry, and other responsibilities. Finding time for writing challenges would be difficult at this stage of my life.
How did publishing your first book change your writing process?

Working with a professional editor was eye-opening and a great learning experience. I found myself immediately applying the concepts and corrections to my writing style and editing process. I am hopeful the next book’s edit will be less work for the entire team!
Is your writing space pristine or organized chaos?

My physical writing space is organized chaos. I am not a visual person, so it doesn’t bother me when things pile up on my desktop. I jokingly call this the archeological method of organization. I remember when I put each item on my desk, so I can easily find how far down it is in the pile!

At the same time, my digital workspace is pristine. Each file folder is organized. Every file is dated and labeled. Significant revisions are archived and retained. Word processing documents are carefully and consistently formatted. This helps me keep my thoughts in order and writing process organized.