Biblical Answer

The Role of Forgiveness in a World of Hurt and Broken Relationships

In a world where hurt and broken relationships are all too common, the role of forgiveness can be a daunting and counterintuitive concept. The Bible teaches that forgiveness is not just a one-time event, but rather a process that requires practice and perseverance. As Stott notes, "Forgiveness, in that sense, was a prerogative of God alone." (Stott, BC, 29) This means that Christians must forgive as they have been forgiven, even when it feels unnatural and difficult.

The connection between forgiving and being forgiven is a crucial one, as Jesus illustrates in the Lord's Prayer (Matthew 6:12). When we forgive others, we are not just doing them a favor, but we are also demonstrating our gratitude for God's forgiveness of our own sins. This means that forgiveness is not a one-way street, but rather a two-way process that requires both giving and receiving. When we forgive others, we are not forgetting what they have done, but rather releasing the hold that their sin has on us. This allows us to move forward and experience the peace and restoration that comes from a restored relationship with God.

In a world of hurt and broken relationships, forgiveness can be a powerful act of self-defense. When we choose to forgive, we are not giving in to our hurt or resentment, but rather taking control of our emotions and choosing to let go of bitterness. This is not always easy, and it may require us to renew our commitment to forgive multiple times. However, the rewards of forgiveness are well worth the effort. When we forgive, we experience the peace and restoration that comes from a restored relationship with God, and we are able to move forward with hope and confidence. As Jesus says, "If you forgive others when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you." (Matthew 6:14) In this way, forgiveness becomes an act of self-defense, a tourniquet that stops the fatal bleeding of resentment and bitterness.