Forgiveness is not always easy. When someone hurts us, we may replay the words, the action, or the disappointment. But resentment can become a heavy thing to carry.
Colossians 3:13 says: “Continue putting up with one another and forgiving one another freely.” Then it gives the reason: “Just as Jehovah freely forgave you, you must also do the same.” We forgive because we ourselves need forgiveness.
Ephesians 4:32 adds: “Become kind to one another, tenderly compassionate, freely forgiving one another just as God also by Christ freely forgave you.” Forgiveness grows more easily when we remember that all of us are imperfect.
That does not mean pretending the hurt did not matter. It does not mean approving of wrong conduct. But it does mean refusing to let bitterness take over our heart.
Jesus said at Matthew 6:14: “If you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.” Jehovah takes forgiveness seriously because it protects our relationship with him and our peace with others.
Sometimes forgiveness comes quickly. Sometimes it takes prayer and time. Either way, Jehovah can help us let go.
Forgiveness does not change the past, but it can free the future.