Biblical Answer

Forgiveness is a crucial aspect of Christian living, and it's essential to model it in our families, especially when it comes to our adult children. When your child has wronged you, it's natural to feel hurt and want to hold onto that anger. However, holding onto resentment can create a toxic environment and damage your relationship with your child. To forgive your adult child for stealing from you, it's essential to understand that forgiveness doesn't mean forgetting what happened or excusing their behavior. Rather, it means releasing the hold that anger and resentment have on you and choosing to move forward.

To forgive your child, you must first acknowledge your own role in the situation. Have you contributed to the situation by not communicating effectively or by being too controlling? Are there unresolved issues from the past that may have led to your child's behavior? By acknowledging your own flaws and weaknesses, you can begin to take responsibility for your actions and make amends. This humility will help you to approach your child with a more open and receptive heart, creating a safe space for them to confess their mistakes and work towards healing.

Ultimately, forgiveness is a process that requires effort and commitment from both parties. It's not something that can be forced or demanded, but rather it's a choice that we make every day. As Christians, we are called to forgive as we have been forgiven (Matthew 6:14-15). By choosing to forgive your adult child, you are not only restoring your relationship with them but also demonstrating the love and compassion of God to them. Remember, forgiveness is not about the other person; it's about you and your relationship with God. By choosing to forgive, you are choosing to release the hurt and anger that's holding you back and move forward in freedom and peace.