Biblical Answer

Can I forgive but not forget?

The question of whether it is possible to forgive but not forget is a complex one, and the answer is not a simple yes or no. On one hand, the Bible teaches us that forgiveness is an act of the will, and that it is possible to choose to forgive someone even if we don't forget what they did. In fact, the Bible says, "And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins" (Mark 11:25). This verse suggests that forgiveness is not just about forgetting, but about choosing to let go of resentment and bitterness towards someone who has wronged us.

On the other hand, the Bible also teaches us that forgiveness does not necessarily mean forgetting. In fact, the Bible says, "Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. Forgive one another as God in Christ forgave you" (Galatians 6:2-3). This verse suggests that forgiveness is not just about forgetting, but about choosing to release someone from the consequences of their actions. In this sense, forgiveness can be seen as a choice to move forward and not to hold onto resentment and bitterness, even if we don't forget what happened.

Ultimately, the question of whether it is possible to forgive but not forget is a personal one, and the answer will vary from person to person. However, the Bible teaches us that forgiveness is an act of the will, and that it is possible to choose to forgive someone even if we don't forget what they did. Forgiveness is not just about forgetting, but about choosing to let go of resentment and bitterness towards someone who has wronged us, and to release them from the consequences of their actions. By choosing to forgive, we can experience the freedom and peace that comes from releasing our burdens and trusting in God's sovereignty.