Biblical Answer

The Pain of Forgiveness

When we are hurt, it can be incredibly difficult to forgive. Our natural response is to want to hold onto the pain and resentment, to dwell on the hurt that has been inflicted upon us. This can lead to a cycle of bitterness and anger that can be hard to break. However, as Christians, we are called to forgive, not for the benefit of the other person, but for our own sake. Forgiveness is not about excusing or justifying the hurtful behavior, but about releasing the hold that it has on us. When we choose to forgive, we are not saying that what happened was okay, but rather that we trust in God's justice and sovereignty over the situation.

The Process of Forgiveness

So, how do we forgive when it still hurts? The Bible teaches us that forgiveness is an act of self-defense, a way to stop the fatal bleeding of resentment (Matthew 6:14-15). It requires practice and a willingness to trust in God's goodness and justice. When we choose to forgive, we are not just forgiving the other person, but also ourselves. We are releasing the guilt and shame that can weigh us down and hold us back from living the life that God has called us to. Forgiveness is not a feeling, but a decision that we make, often in the midst of pain and difficulty.

The Freedom of Forgiveness

When we forgive, we experience freedom from the hold that resentment and bitterness have on us. We are able to let go of the past and move forward, trusting in God's goodness and sovereignty over our lives. Forgiveness is not about the other person, but about us and our relationship with God. When we choose to forgive, we are not saying that what happened was okay, but rather that we trust in God's justice and sovereignty over the situation. As the Bible says, "If you forgive those who sin against you, your heavenly Father will forgive you." (Matthew 6:14-15) Forgiveness is not always easy, but it is always worth it. It brings freedom, peace, and joy, and allows us to live the life that God has called us to.