Choosing Forgiveness
The Power and Purpose of Forgiveness in the Christian Life
Forgiveness is one of the most vital yet often difficult commands in the Christian life. It's easy to say that we should forgive—much harder when we've been deeply wronged. And yet, Scripture repeatedly calls us to practice forgiveness not just as a suggestion, but as a reflection of God’s own character working in us. As Christians, we are called to be holy as God is holy (1 Peter 1:15-16), and part of that holiness is found in extending the same forgiveness we have received through Christ.
God Forgave Us—We Must Forgive Others
One of the most compelling reasons we must forgive is because God forgave us. Through Christ’s sacrifice, we are washed clean from our sins—not because we earned it, but because of His mercy. If God can forgive us of our sins, we have no excuse not to forgive others.
“And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.”
— Ephesians 4:32 (NKJV)
Jesus sets the example in His own life, even forgiving those who crucified Him.
“Then Jesus said, ‘Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do.’”
— Luke 23:34 (NKJV)
How can we call ourselves followers of Christ and yet withhold forgiveness from others?
Forgiveness Is a Command, Not an Option
Forgiveness isn't just recommended—it’s required. Jesus was very clear in His teachings that if we expect to be forgiven by God, we must forgive others.
“For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.”
— Matthew 6:14-15 (NKJV)
That is a sobering reminder that our relationship with God is directly impacted by our willingness to forgive others.
Forgiveness Frees Us From Bitterness and Burden
Holding onto anger, resentment, and bitterness only hurts us in the end. It can poison our thoughts, weigh down our hearts, and damage our relationship with God and others. Forgiveness doesn’t mean what someone did was right—it means we are choosing to release the burden of carrying the offense.
“Cease from anger, and forsake wrath; do not fret—it only causes harm.”
— Psalm 37:8 (NKJV)“A sound heart is life to the body, but envy is rottenness to the bones.”
— Proverbs 14:30 (NKJV)
Forgiveness lifts that burden. It brings peace, healing, and restoration—not only in relationships but in our own hearts.
Forgiveness Shows Christ to Others
When we forgive others—especially when it’s hard—we show the world what Jesus is like. It’s a powerful witness. People expect anger, revenge, and bitterness. But when we forgive, especially when we’ve been deeply hurt, it testifies to a power greater than ourselves.
“But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you...”
— Matthew 5:44 (NKJV)
Jesus didn’t say this would be easy—but He said it for a reason. Forgiving others breaks the cycle of hate and bitterness. It opens doors for reconciliation and perhaps even leads others to repentance and to Christ.
We Forgive Because We Are Being Transformed
Christians are continually being transformed into the image of Christ. Forgiveness is part of that transformation. It is a process, sometimes slow and painful, but it shows that we are walking in the Spirit and not in the flesh.
“Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; bearing with one another, and forgiving one another...”
— Colossians 3:12-13 (NKJV)
This is the kind of character God desires in us—a heart that reflects His mercy and grace.
We Must Strive to Forgive
Forgiveness is not always simple. It may take time. It may take prayer, tears, and persistence. But as Christians, we must strive to forgive—because God forgave us, because we are commanded to, and because it frees us to live in peace and joy. It is one of the greatest acts of love and faith we can show both to God and to others.
May we never be people who only speak about forgiveness but be those who live it out, even when it’s hard—especially when it’s hard. In doing so, we glorify God, bless others, and guard our own hearts from the damage of bitterness.
“Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice.”
— Ephesians 4:31 (NKJV)“Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”
— Romans 12:21 (NKJV)