Forgiveness: Learning to Let Go and Move Forward

Hey friend, let’s chat.

If there’s one area of faith that stretches me again and again, it’s forgiveness. On paper it sounds simple “just forgive” but in reality, it can be one of the hardest things God asks us to do. People hurt us. Sometimes deeply. And letting go of the pain doesn’t always come naturally. But here’s the thing: forgiveness isn’t about pretending it didn’t happen or saying the hurt was okay. It’s about releasing the weight we were never meant to carry. When we hold on to unforgiveness, it grows into bitterness that steals our peace and keeps us bound. The Bible reminds us, “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you” (Ephesians 4:32, NIV). Jesus set the example. He forgave us fully past, present, and future. And He calls us to extend that same grace to others. When Peter asked Jesus, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?” Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times” (Matthew 18:21–22, NIV). In other words, forgiveness has no limit. And the greatest picture of forgiveness is Jesus Himself on the cross. As He was being crucified for our sins, He prayed, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing” (Luke 23:34, NIV). If our Savior could forgive in that moment, we can trust Him to help us forgive in ours. I’ve learned that forgiveness doesn’t always happen overnight. Sometimes it’s a choice we make again and again until the feelings catch up. It’s an act of obedience and trust, believing that God is the ultimate Judge and that He can handle what we cannot. If you’re wrestling with unforgiveness today, I want you to know this: you don’t have to do it in your own strength. The Holy Spirit empowers us to forgive when it feels impossible. And every time we choose forgiveness, we step into freedom.

“For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.” Matthew 6:14 (NIV)

With love and gratitude, always

Kevi