Biblical Answer

The Struggle to Forgive

When we have forgiven someone for a wrong they have done against us, but anger returns, it can be a challenging and confusing experience. We may feel like we are being unfair to ourselves by not being able to hold onto our anger, but the truth is that unforgiveness can become a prison for us. When we choose to hold onto anger, we are not responding to the real wrong that was done against us, but rather to our own hurt and resentment. This can lead to a cycle of bitterness and anger that is difficult to break.

The Importance of Trusting God

When anger returns, it can be a sign that we do not trust God to handle the situation. We may feel like we need to take matters into our own hands or seek revenge, but this is not the way of a Christian. Instead, we are called to trust in God's sovereignty and goodness, even when we do not understand what is happening. This requires us to let go of our need for control and to trust that God is working all things together for our good (Romans 8:28). When we trust God, we can release our anger and bitterness, and instead choose to forgive and move forward.

The Process of Forgiveness

Forgiveness is not a one-time event, but rather a process that requires effort and commitment. It is not always easy, and we may need to forgive the same person multiple times. But forgiveness is not about the other person; it is about our own heart and our relationship with God. When we choose to forgive, we are not saying that the other person's actions were okay, but rather that we are choosing to release our bitterness and anger and trust God to handle the situation. This requires us to be patient and to trust in God's goodness, even when we do not feel like it. By choosing to forgive, we can experience the joy and freedom that comes from trusting in God's sovereignty and goodness.