What the Bible Says About Forgiveness

Forgiveness is rarely simple. It's one of the most asked-about topics on Ask Jesus, and for good reason—we've all been hurt, and letting go feels impossible.

Why Forgiveness Matters

Jesus was clear: "For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you." (Matthew 6:14)

But forgiveness isn't about pretending the hurt didn't happen. It's about releasing the debt so you can be free.

What Forgiveness Is NOT

• •It's not excusing bad behavior
• •It's not forgetting what happened
• •It's not immediately trusting again
• •It's not staying in an abusive situation

What Forgiveness IS

• •A choice, not a feeling
• •A process, not a one-time event
• •Freedom for YOU, not just them
• •Trusting justice to God

"Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord." (Romans 12:19)

When we forgive, we're not saying what they did was okay. We're saying we refuse to let it poison us any longer.