Forgiveness: What it is and what it isn’t

Want to hear something crazy?

I used to think it was selfish to pray for myself, so I never did. I know, insert the face smack emoji. But I did. However, this is so contrary to God's Word. Time and time again, we see people asking for what they need in scripture. And time and time again, we see God answer.

Friend, God truly cares about you and your pain. He understands. Jesus was crucified though He was innocent, His friends abandoned Him at the cross, He was betrayed and denied. He was literally in our shoes.

So what does this say about His compassion? It says that He IS compassion.

Let’s Myth Bust

Place a mental checkmark next to the myths you have believed about forgiveness.

  • Forgiving means forgetting

  • Forgiveness means you need to also reconcile

  • Real forgiveness means the pain goes away

  • Forgiveness lets the other person “off the hook”

  • You can only forgive if the person apologizes

If you’re anything like me, one reason you’ve been struggling to forgive is that you’ve believed some of these myths. Understanding forgiveness from a biblical perspective instead of a societal one can actually feel much more freeing.

Let the Truth Set You Free

Here are some biblical truths about forgiveness.

  • Everyone needs forgiveness (Romans 5:8).

  • Forgiveness is an act of obedience (Colossians 3:13).

  • God will help you forgive (John 14: 26-27).

  • Forgiveness promotes peace (Proverbs 10:12).

  • Forgiveness helps love prosper (Proverbs 17:19 ).

Today’s Biblical Meditation

“But when the Father sends the Advocate as my representative—that is, the Holy Spirit—he will teach you everything and will remind you of everything I have told you. I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid.”
— John 14:26-27

As you read, the Holy Spirit gives us peace of mind and heart. Doesn’t peace in your mind and heart sound like exactly what you need to forgive? Not only that, but the Holy Spirit is also our helper. So, that means he will HELP you forgive if you ask.

Our Prayer

Dear Lord, forgiveness has been hard for me. My heart has been hardened because of the pain I’ve experienced. Lord, please give me the strength to lay this pain down at your feet. I pray for a softened heart and the ability to walk in obedience. I know forgiveness doesn’t mean that I can’t feel hurt. I acknowledge today that I am hurt, but I’m giving that pain to you. I pray your Spirit gives me the strength to forgive and let go. And whatever my humanity doesn’t allow for, I know your blood on the cross will surely cover. In Jesus' name, Amen.