Biblical Answer

Do I have to forgive someone who isn't sorry?

Forgiveness is not dependent on the other person's apology or regret. In fact, Jesus said, "If your brother sins, rebuke him; and if he repents, forgive him" (Luke 17:3). This implies that forgiveness is a response to the person's repentance, not their apology. However, forgiveness is not a one-time event, but a process that requires effort and intention. It's not something that automatically follows a decision to forgive.

The Bible teaches that we must forgive others, not because they deserve it, but because we need to. An unforgiving spirit can poison our soul and eat us alive (Matthew 18:35). When we forgive someone who has wronged us, we might feel they are getting something they don't deserve, but the unforgiving spirit can bring death into our life in one form or another. The best way to become forgiving is to pray for the person you need to forgive, even if they never apologize.

While forgiveness doesn't justify the other person's actions, it makes them free (Luke 6:37-38). Forgiveness is not about erasing memories or justifying the other person's behavior, but about trusting that God is the God of justice and saying, "Father, I trust that you will handle this situation." Forgiveness is a choice that we make, not based on what feels good at the moment, but based on what God has asked us to do. It's a choice that requires effort and intention, but it's a choice that can bring healing and freedom to our lives.