Biblical Answer

When considering forgiveness, it's essential to recognize that forgiveness is a choice, not a feeling. It's a decision we make to release the hold that a person's actions have on us and to entrust God with justice. Forgiveness doesn't mean what the other person did was okay; it means we trust God's justice and sovereignty over the situation. As the Bible says, "The blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin" (1 John 1:7). This means that, regardless of what we've done, God will forgive us if we come to Him with a repentant heart.

However, the question of whether we must forgive if the other person doesn't repent and ask for forgiveness is more complex. Jesus' teaching in Luke 17:3 suggests that we should forgive the one who indicates regret for sin against us. But what about when the other person doesn't show remorse? Does that mean we're not required to forgive? The Bible teaches us to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us (Matthew 5:44). This doesn't mean we have to condone their actions, but rather that we should respond to them with kindness and compassion, even when they don't deserve it. In this sense, forgiveness can be a choice we make, even when the other person doesn't repent.

Ultimately, forgiveness is a process that requires effort and commitment. It's not something that happens overnight, and it may take time to work through our emotions and come to a place of forgiveness. But as we choose to forgive, we open ourselves up to the possibility of healing and restoration. We also demonstrate our trust in God's sovereignty and justice, even when we can't see the outcome. As the Bible says, "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs" (1 Corinthians 13:4-5). Forgiveness is a choice that requires us to embody this kind of love, even when it's hard.