Biblical Answer

The Value of Forgiveness in the Face of Hurt

The Process of Forgiveness

Forgiveness is an act of self-defense that stops the fatal bleeding of resentment. It is a process, not an event, and it takes practice to perfect. We may need to relinquish our bitterness multiple times before we can truly forgive. Forgiveness is not saying that what the other person did is okay, but rather trusting that God is the God of justice and saying, "Father, I forgive them." This process of forgiveness is accompanied by a hatred of sin and a hunger for righteousness.

The Connection between Forgiveness and Being Forgiven

The connection between our forgiving and being forgiven is graphically expounded in Scripture. Forgiveness is not dependent on the actions of the offender, but rather on our choice to forgive. When we forgive, we are not condoning the hurtful behavior, but rather releasing ourselves from the bondage of resentment. This choice to forgive has been linked to multiple positive mental and physical health outcomes. In the New Testament, the forgiveness ethic is coupled with the command to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us.

The Importance of Forgiveness in Christianity

In Christianity, forgiveness is a fundamental aspect of our faith. Jesus taught us to forgive others as we have been forgiven by God. When we forgive, we are not only releasing ourselves from the hurt, but also reflecting the character of God. Forgiveness is not a one-time event, but rather a process that we must continually work on. As we forgive, we are not only healing ourselves, but also glorifying God. As the Bible says, "Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you" (Colossians 3:13). By choosing to forgive, we are not only reflecting God's character, but also experiencing the freedom and peace that comes with it.