Forgiveness
2.17.2025
By: Ray SaVonne
"For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places." - Ephesians 6:12
Forgiveness can feel like one of the most challenging acts to embrace, especially when we are hurt by others. But in Ephesians 6:12, we are reminded that our struggles are not merely physical or against people, but rather against spiritual forces and influences that seek to create division and strife. It encourages us to put on the full armor of God to stand firm in our faith.
The enemy thrives on sowing discord and fostering unforgiveness in our hearts, but God calls us to rise above the battle with a heart of grace and compassion. By understanding that forgiveness is not just a human endeavor but a spiritual act, we can begin to break free from the chains of resentment and find true peace.
Although holding onto anger and resentment may feel justified in the moment, over time, the weight of those emotions can become unbearable. It can seep into every part of your life, draining your joy and peace. But when you choose forgiveness, something incredible happens: healing begins, and the heaviness starts to lift.
Recently, I made it a priority to forgive—like, really forgive. I didn’t realize how much I was carrying until I felt the freedom of letting go. Bitterness had taken root in places I didn’t even notice, and it wasn’t until I started to search into my heart that I understood just how much it was affecting me. The process wasn’t (and still isn’t) easy. It required some uncomfortable conversations and a lot of soul-searching. But each time I leaned into those moments, I felt a little lighter. It was as if years of built-up tension were finally being released, piece by piece.
If there’s someone you need to forgive—or maybe even yourself—know this: there’s no better time to start your forgiveness journey than today. I learned quickly that I couldn’t walk this path alone. I needed God’s guidance, His wisdom, and His peace to navigate the journey.
What the Bible says about forgiveness:
Forgive as God Forgives
“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:32)
Forgiveness mirrors God's mercy toward us. We are called to extend grace, reflecting God's love and forgiveness.
Let Go of Resentment
“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” (Colossians 3:13)
Nothing good comes from resentment. The Bible encourages forgiveness to restore peace and unity.
Forgiveness is Infinite
“Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, ‘Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?’ Jesus answered, ‘I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.’” (Matthew 18:21-22)
Jesus teaches that forgiveness should be boundless, emphasizing a heart willing to forgive repeatedly.
Reconciliation with Others
“Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift.” (Matthew 5:23-24)
The Bible prioritizes mending relationships, showing the importance of seeking forgiveness and making peace with others.
Forgiveness Brings Freedom
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28)
Forgiveness releases the emotional and spiritual weight of bitterness, offering rest and peace in Christ.
Steps to Begin Your Forgiveness Journey:
1. Acknowledge Your Feelings
Start by identifying the hurt and anger you’re holding on to. Journal your thoughts or talk to a trusted friend or therapist to clarify your emotions.
2. Understand the Impact
Reflect on how holding onto resentment is affecting your life. Is it draining your energy? Is it keeping you stuck in the past? Recognizing the cost of unforgiveness can motivate you to let go.
3. Separate the Person from the Action
Recognize that people are complex and often act out of their own pain or ignorance. Understanding this doesn’t excuse the hurt, but it can help you see the bigger picture and humanize the person who hurt you.
4. Decide to Forgive
Forgiveness is a choice, not a feeling. Commit to the decision to forgive, even if you don’t feel ready. Over time, your emotions will align with your decision.
5. Release the Hurt
Find healthy ways to release your pain, whether through meditation, prayer, art, or physical activity. Visualization exercises, like imagining yourself cutting a cord that binds you to the hurt, can be especially effective.
6. Practice Empathy
Try to put yourself in the other person’s shoes. What might have led them to act the way they did? Developing empathy doesn’t excuse their behavior, but it can soften your perspective.
7. Set Boundaries if Needed
Forgiveness doesn’t always mean reconciling or allowing someone back into your life. Protect your peace by setting clear boundaries to prevent further harm.
8. Seek Support
Forgiveness can be challenging, especially for deep wounds. Reach out to a therapist, spiritual advisor, or support group to guide you through the process.
Forgiveness doesn’t change the past, but it can transform your outlook for a brighter future. Remember, it’s not about condoning what happened; it’s about freeing yourself from its grip. So, be courageous in taking your first step towards forgiveness today. You’ve got this!
XO,
The Kléi
