Forgiveness: What Does the Bible Say?

Understanding God’s Heart on Letting Go, Healing, and Moving Forward

Forgiveness isn’t always easy. Sometimes it feels like the hardest thing God asks us to do—especially when the wounds are deep, the pain is fresh, or the apology never comes.

But still, over and over, Scripture calls us to forgive. So that leaves us with one important question: Forgiveness—what does the Bible actually say?

Let’s walk through it together.

1. Forgiveness Is Commanded—Not Suggested

Jesus made it crystal clear in Matthew 6:14-15:

“For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.”

That’s a powerful truth.God doesn’t just encourage forgiveness—He ties it to our relationship with Him. It’s not about ignoring justice or pretending hurt didn’t happen. It’s about reflecting the mercy He’s already given to us.

2. Forgiveness What Does the Bible Say?: Sets You Free

Forgiveness doesn’t mean what happened was okay. It means you’re choosing not to be held hostage by the pain.

Paul writes in Colossians 3:13:

“Bear with each other and forgive one another… Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”

When we forgive, we’re not just releasing someone else—we’re releasing ourselves.We trade bitterness for peace. Resentment for healing.Because in the end, forgiveness is freedom.

3. God’s Forgiveness Is the Model

One of the most beautiful verses in Scripture is 1 John 1:9:

“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”

No matter how far we’ve strayed, God’s forgiveness is always within reach.And as recipients of His grace, we’re called to pass it on—to our spouses, friends, family, even ourselves.

4. Yes, Forgiving Yourself Is Part of the Journey

Though the Bible doesn’t use the phrase “forgive yourself,” the principle is there.

If God has already forgiven you, who are you to keep holding it against yourself?

“As far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us.” – Psalm 103:12

Learning to walk in God’s forgiveness also means learning to release shame and guilt. You're not your past. You're redeemed.

5. Forgiveness Is a Process, Not Always a Moment

Sometimes forgiveness comes instantly.Other times, it’s a daily choice to surrender the pain back to God—again and again.

And that’s okay.Forgiveness is less about feelings and more about faithful obedience.

“Love keeps no record of wrongs.” – 1 Corinthians 13:5

It’s not forgetting. It’s choosing love instead of revenge. Grace instead of grudges. Healing instead of hardness.

Final Thoughts

Forgiveness is a sacred invitation. It’s not easy—but it is holy.

So if you're struggling to forgive someone—or even yourself—know this:God sees you. He understands the cost. And He will walk with you through the process.

Lean into His Word. Trust His timing.And remember—you are never more like Christ than when you choose to forgive.

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