Biblical Answer

Can forgiveness heal old wounds?

Forgiveness is often misunderstood as a one-time event that erases memories and heals old wounds. However, forgiveness is a process that requires practice and commitment. It is not a natural act, but rather an unnatural one that takes effort to perfect. Forgiveness does not mean forgetting, but rather not holding a person's sin against them. In the shadow of the cross, forgiveness is a gift from one undeserving soul to another, and it is a decision that can bring healing and release.

The connection between forgiving and being forgiven is graphically expounded in Scripture. Forgiveness cannot be a one-way street, but rather a two-way process. When we forgive, we are not only releasing the other person from their debt, but also ourselves from the burden of resentment and bitterness. Forgiveness is an act of self-defense, a tourniquet that stops the fatal bleeding of resentment. As Jesus said, "For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you." (Matthew 6:14-15)

Forgiveness is not dependent on the actions of the offender, but rather on our decision to forgive. This decision can be made even in the face of repeated offenses or when the other person is unwilling to seek forgiveness. Forgiveness is a choice that we must make continually, as feelings of resentment or bitterness can well up within us. When we choose to forgive, we are not only releasing ourselves from the prison of bitterness, but also opening ourselves up to healing and reconciliation with others. 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) Forgiveness is not a one-time event, but a process that requires commitment and practice. It is a gift from God that allows us to heal and be healed.