I recently took a dive into 5 Myths About Forgiveness—and if you missed it, trust me, it’s worth checking out. But today, we’re flipping the script, which I absolutely love, because we’re digging into 5 truths that come when we choose to forgive and the kind of freedom it brings.
Here’s the thing: holding onto past hurts doesn’t just mess with our peace—it clutters up our hearts and minds, weighing us down with anxiety, bitterness, and even fear. And here’s the crazy part: sometimes when little roots of anger or frustration start popping up, it’s often because of hidden roots of unforgiveness that need pulling. Don’t ask me how I know this... ha!
So, what actually happens when we let go? That's what we're going to talk about today. Let’s break down 5 truths about forgiveness that sets us free—not just spiritually, but mentally and even physically. Ready to ditch the baggage and step into some real freedom? Let’s go!
1. Forgiveness is More for You than Them
Let’s get one thing straight: forgiveness isn’t about letting the other person off the hook. It’s about releasing the hold their actions have over your heart and mind. When we forgive, we’re the ones who get to stop replaying the hurt and find peace.
Truth: “Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.” – 1 Peter 5:7
Forgiveness allows us to cast the burden of our pain and resentment onto God, who cares deeply about our peace.
2. Forgiveness Doesn’t Mean Forgetting
Forgiving someone doesn’t mean you have to pretend like it never happened. Real forgiveness acknowledges the pain but chooses to let go of the grip it has on us. You can set boundaries, protect your heart, and still forgive.
Truth: “Do not call to mind the former things; pay no attention to the things of old.” – Isaiah 43:18
God encourages us to leave the past behind, focusing on the freedom forgiveness brings instead.
3. Forgiveness Isn’t a Feeling; It’s a Choice
If we waited until we felt ready to forgive, we’d be waiting forever. Forgiveness isn’t a warm, fuzzy feeling; it’s a choice to let go of resentment. Some days it’s harder than others, but every time we choose forgiveness, we’re choosing peace.
Truth: “Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others.” – Colossians 3:13
This verse reminds us that forgiveness is an intentional choice, rooted in our relationship with God and His forgiveness toward us.
4. Forgiveness Is Hard—Even for Christians
Following Jesus doesn’t automatically make forgiveness easy. Sometimes, forgiving deeply tests our character and our faith. But we don’t walk that journey alone; God’s grace is there, one step at a time.
Truth: “He was despised and rejected—a man of sorrows, acquainted with deepest grief.” – Isaiah 53:3
Jesus Himself understands the pain of rejection and betrayal, reminding us that God’s grace is enough to walk us through forgiveness.
5. Forgiveness Sets You Free
Unforgiveness keeps us chained to the past, but forgiveness is the key to freedom. When we forgive, we reclaim our peace and let God fill those broken places with healing and love.
Truth: “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.” – Galatians 5:1
When we forgive, we step into the freedom Jesus has already secured for us, releasing the hold bitterness has on our hearts.
A Fresh Start
Forgiveness isn’t easy, and let’s be honest—it’s a journey that doesn’t always feel good at first. But it’s worth every ounce of effort. Choosing forgiveness means finally letting go of the baggage that’s been weighing us down, making room for peace, joy, and a fresh start. It’s not about pretending everything’s fine or ignoring the hurt. It’s about refusing to let that hurt run our lives.
When we choose to forgive, we’re setting ourselves free to live fully, without carrying someone else’s mistakes around with us. So today, maybe it’s time to take that first step. Let’s loosen our grip on the past and allow God’s love to do some serious healing.
Want to Dive Deeper?
Here are three powerful resources to help you on your journey of forgiveness:
Our Fall Emag: Set Free: Absolution - The Healing Journey of Forgiveness shares real-life stories and practical insights to encourage you as you let go.
Bible Study: Deeply Rooted: A 5-day mini-study focused on growing strong in God’s love, even when forgiveness is hard.
Bible Study: The Path Less Traveled: Discover what it means to forgive even without reconciliation and how true forgiveness sets you free.
Let's start walking in the freedom that God has called us to live,
Tracee Padilla
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