Biblical Answer

Understanding Forgiveness

The concept of forgiveness is often misunderstood, and it can be difficult to grasp, especially when it comes to forgiving oneself. However, forgiveness is not about condoning or excusing wrong behavior, but rather about trusting in God's justice and sovereignty. As the Bible says, "The blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin" (1 John 1:7), indicating that God's forgiveness is available to us through faith in Jesus Christ.

Self-Loathing and the Need for Forgiveness

Self-loathing and guilt can be overwhelming, especially when we feel we have wronged others or ourselves. However, it's essential to recognize that God's forgiveness covers both guilt and shame. When we feel unable to forgive ourselves, it's often because we're trying to take on God's role as judge and punisher. But God's forgiveness is not dependent on our ability to forgive ourselves; rather, it's a gift that we receive through faith in Jesus Christ. As the Bible teaches, "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness" (1 John 1:9).

The Process of Forgiveness

Forgiveness is a process that involves asking for forgiveness, forgiving others, and reconciling with those we've wronged. It's not about saying that what someone did is okay, but rather about trusting in God's justice and sovereignty. As the Bible says, "Father, I trust that You are the God of justice, and I trust that You will bring justice to this situation" (Matthew 6:14-15). When we ask for forgiveness and trust in God's forgiveness, we begin to experience healing and freedom from guilt and shame. We can then extend forgiveness to others, not because they deserve it, but because God's forgiveness has transformed us and given us a new perspective on life. By trusting in God's forgiveness, we can break free from self-loathing and experience the peace and joy that comes from living in a right relationship with God.