Forgive And Be Free

Yesterday, we explored how God's forgiveness gives us new life and frees us from shame. As we embrace His forgiveness, we often discover the need to forgive ourselves for past mistakes. But what about forgiving others?

Forgiveness is a powerful decision that leads to healing. It is important to realize that forgiveness is an intentional decision rather than a feeling. We cannot always control how we feel, but we can make decisions about how we will act and what we will say. It is a choice, not a reaction.

Many of us have experienced horrible things at the hands of others. Some experience verbal and physical abuse from the people who should empower and care for them. Others are neglected and left to fend for themselves in a dark world. Many have experienced injustice at the hands of those who should stand for righteousness.

When we forgive we are choosing to no longer allow other’s mistakes to have influence over our lives. Forgiveness does not mean that what happened was ok and everything will go back to the way it was. We can forgive and still keep healthy boundaries that keep us safe and communicate that we only engage in respectful relationships.

Forgiving is a humble act of submission to Jesus. When we forgive, we relinquish the role of judge and trust Jesus as the perfect and righteous judge. We can trust that He sees all and will bring justice in His time.

“For God will bring every act to judgment, including every hidden thing, whether good or evil.” Eccl 12:14

Forgiving doesn’t mean forgetting the hurt; rather, it means choosing to live free from bitterness. We can release others because Jesus will not forget. On the day of judgment, every wrong will be accounted for, either through the punishment borne by Jesus on the cross or by those who stand apart from Him. Forgiveness is not about letting someone "off the hook"; it’s about entrusting the situation to God’s capable hands and embracing the freedom He offers.

Pray with your own words, or try these:

Father, I come before You today with a heart that desires freedom and healing. I acknowledge the hurt and pain others have caused me, and I choose to forgive them. Lord, I release them from the debt I feel they owe me, trusting that You are the perfect judge and will bring justice in Your time. Help me to let go of bitterness and resentment, and fill my heart with peace. I choose to walk in Your grace and mercy, just as You have forgiven me. Thank You for the healing that forgiveness brings. In Jesus' name, Amen.