Biblical Answer

Can I forgive my family member for what they did?

The Bible teaches us that forgiveness is a choice we make, not a feeling. In other words, we can choose to forgive someone even if we don't feel like it. In fact, Jesus said, "If your brother sins, rebuke him; and if he repents, forgive him" (Luke 17:3). Forgiveness doesn't mean that the other person deserves it or that what they did was okay. It means that we are choosing to let go of our anger and resentment towards them.

However, forgiveness is not always easy. It's a process that takes time and effort. We may need to go through a process of identifying who we're angry with, pinpointing what was taken from us, and praying for the person we need to forgive. It's also important to remember that forgiveness doesn't mean that we forget what happened or that the other person gets off scot-free. Forgiveness is about releasing the hold that the hurt has on us, so that we can move on with our lives.

So, can you forgive your family member for what they did? Yes, you can. Forgiveness is a choice, and it's something that you can choose to do even if the other person doesn't repent or ask for forgiveness. In fact, forgiveness is not just about the other person; it's about you and your relationship with God. When you forgive, you're releasing the hold that the hurt has on you, and you're trusting God to be the God of justice. As the Bible says, "Forgiveness is a choice you make, not a feeling" (emphasis added). So, choose to forgive, and trust God to work in your life and in the lives of those around you.