Scripture: “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” – Ephesians 4:32
Forgiveness is central to the Christian faith. It’s the reason Christ went to the cross and the foundation of our relationship with God. Yet, it is often one of the hardest things to do. Why? Because forgiveness feels unjust when we’ve been hurt. But in Christ, forgiveness is not a suggestion—it’s a command.
When we forgive, we free ourselves from the prison of bitterness. Refusing to forgive keeps us chained to pain and resentment. Jesus taught us to pray, “Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors” (Matthew 6:12). This shows a direct relationship between our forgiveness from God and how we forgive others.
Jesus didn’t just preach forgiveness—He modeled it. Hanging on the cross, He said, “Father, forgive them” (Luke 23:34). He extended grace to the very ones who crucified Him.
Forgiveness isn’t saying what was done is okay. It’s choosing to release the offender to God and trusting Him to bring justice in His time. It’s letting go so we can heal and grow.
If you’re struggling to forgive, ask God for help. The Holy Spirit empowers us to do what our flesh resists. Remember, we’ve been forgiven much—so we must also forgive.
