Holding onto anger hurts you most. Unlock the freedom of forgiveness. Explore actionable steps to release resentment, find emotional peace, and finally move on from old wounds.
We’ve all been hurt at some point, whether by a friend, family member, or even ourselves. Those wounds can stick around longer than we want, replaying in our minds and holding us captive. But the Bible offers a powerful invitation: forgive it and drop it. Letting go of past hurts isn’t just good advice; it’s a path to freedom God calls us to walk.
Why Forgiveness Is So Hard, and So Necessary
Forgiveness isn’t about pretending the hurt didn’t happen or excusing bad behavior. It’s a choice to release the grip that pain and resentment have on our hearts. The Bible acknowledges this struggle but also points us to the freedom that comes with forgiveness:
“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:32)
Holding onto bitterness might feel like self-protection, but it actually keeps us trapped. Forgiveness breaks those chains.
What Happens When We Choose to Forgive
When you forgive and drop the hurt, you’re stepping into God’s peace and freedom:
You’re freed from bitterness. Jesus said, “Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy” (Matthew 5:7). Mercy frees both the giver and receiver.
Your heart makes room for healing. Forgiveness allows God’s healing love to fill the spaces left by pain.
You reflect God’s grace. Just as God has forgiven us through Jesus (Colossians 3:13), we’re called to extend that same grace to others.
How to Forgive and Let Go-Biblical Steps
1.Acknowledge the hurt honestly. Don’t hide your pain from God. Psalm 34:18 reminds us, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
2.Ask God for help. Forgiveness can feel impossible, but with God, all things are possible (Matthew 19:26). Pray for the strength to release your pain.
3.Make the choice to forgive. Forgiveness is a decision, not just a feeling. Remember Jesus’ words on the cross: “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing” (Luke 23:34).
4.Set healthy boundaries if needed. Forgiving doesn’t mean allowing ongoing harm. Protect yourself while letting go of resentment (Proverbs 4:23).
You Deserve Freedom
The truth is, holding onto grudges only weighs us down. God’s invitation is to live free, full of peace and joy. As Hebrews 12:1 encourages us, “Let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles.”
If you’re struggling to forgive today, remember you’re not alone. God’s grace is bigger than your pain, and He’s ready to help you take that first step toward freedom.
What’s one hurt you need to forgive and drop today? Take it to God in prayer and start walking in the freedom He offers.
