Biblical Answer

The Burden of Self-Forgiveness

The question of forgiving oneself for not being able to pay is a complex one, especially for those who struggle with feelings of guilt and shame. However, it's essential to understand that self-forgiveness is not about justifying or excusing one's actions but rather about releasing the burden of guilt and shame. As the Bible teaches, "If you forgive those who sin against you, your heavenly Father will forgive you. But if you do not forgive them, neither will your Father forgive you" (Matthew 6:14-15).

The Connection Between Forgiveness and Being Forgiven

The Bible emphasizes the connection between our forgiving others and being forgiven by God. This is not to say that forgiving others is a prerequisite for being forgiven, but rather that forgiveness is a two-way street. When we forgive others, it reflects our understanding of God's forgiveness towards us. As Jesus taught, "Love your neighbor as yourself" (Mark 12:31), which implies that we should treat others with the same love and kindness that we would want them to show us. By forgiving others, we demonstrate our trust in God's forgiveness and our willingness to follow His example.

The Necessity of Humility

Forgiving oneself for not being able to pay requires humility, which is a fundamental aspect of the Christian faith. As the Bible teaches, "Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall" (Proverbs 16:18). When we insist on our own righteousness and refuse to forgive ourselves, we demonstrate a prideful attitude that can lead to spiritual destruction. On the other hand, when we acknowledge our weaknesses and shortcomings, and ask for God's forgiveness, we demonstrate humility and a willingness to learn from our mistakes. As the Bible teaches, "God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble" (James 4:6). By embracing humility and asking for God's forgiveness, we can experience the freedom and peace that come from forgiving ourselves and others.