Matthew 6:14-15, New International Version

"For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins."

Forgiveness is one of the most challenging commands Jesus gave, yet it’s also one of the most transformative. In Matthew 6:14-15 (NIV), Jesus says, "For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins." Forgiving others is not just an act of obedience; it’s a reflection of God’s grace in our lives. When we extend forgiveness, we release ourselves from the chains of bitterness and invite God’s healing into our hearts.

Forgiveness starts with recognizing how much we’ve been forgiven. Romans 3:23 (NIV) reminds us, "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." Despite our failures, God offers us unmerited grace through Jesus Christ. Understanding the depth of God’s forgiveness compels us to extend that same mercy to others. When we hold onto grudges, we fail to reflect the love and forgiveness we’ve received. By choosing to forgive, we mirror God’s character and demonstrate His transforming power to the world.

Forgiving others doesn’t mean we excuse wrongdoing or ignore the pain it caused. Instead, it’s a deliberate choice to let go of resentment and entrust justice to God. Romans 12:19 (NIV) encourages us, "Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: 'It is mine to avenge; I will repay,' says the Lord." When we forgive, we relinquish the desire for revenge and trust that God will handle the situation with perfect justice and mercy.

Forgiveness is also vital for our own well-being. Unforgiveness can weigh heavily on our hearts, causing emotional and spiritual harm. Ephesians 4:31-32 (NIV) urges us, "Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger... Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." By forgiving, we free ourselves from the burden of bitterness and allow God’s peace to take root in our lives. Forgiveness is not just a gift we give others; it’s a gift we give ourselves.

As Christians, we are called to forgive because we serve a forgiving God. It’s not always easy, and it often requires surrender and prayer. But through God’s strength, we can let go of anger and extend grace to others. Forgiveness restores relationships, brings healing, and allows us to walk in freedom. Let us choose forgiveness today, trusting that God will use our obedience to bring peace and restoration to our hearts and to those around us.