Christian Forgiveness: Letting Go for Your Own Peace 😊🕊

Hi friend,

Forgiveness is one of those things that sounds easy until you actually have to do it. I used to think that if I forgave someone, it meant I was saying what they did was okay or that I had to let them back into my life. But that’s not what forgiveness is.

Forgiveness is for us, not the other person. It’s about releasing the hurt and anger that keeps us bound, so we can experience the peace that only God can give.

“Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.”  Ephesians 4:32

I carried hurt for a long time. I told myself I was over it, that I had moved on, but deep down, I hadn’t. Every time I thought about the situation or that person, all the pain came rushing back. It was like I was carrying around a heavy backpack filled with anger, bitterness, and sadness. And honestly ... It was exhausting.

I remember praying about it, asking God to take away the hurt, but I was still holding onto it. I didn’t want to forgive because I felt like they didn’t deserve it. But God gently reminded me that I didn’t deserve His forgiveness either, and yet, He offers it freely.

“For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.” Matthew 6:14

When I finally chose to forgive, not because they deserved it, but because I needed to, I felt a literal weight lift off of me. It wasn’t instant, but as I kept praying and giving it to God, the bitterness started to fade. And in its place? Peace.

How to Walk in Forgiveness

1. Pray for a Willing Heart – Forgiveness starts with being willing. Even if you’re not ready yet, ask God to soften your heart and help you take that first step.

2. Release It to God – You don’t have to carry that burden anymore. Lay it at His feet and trust Him with the outcome. He is the ultimate healer.

3. Remind Yourself of God’s Forgiveness – When I think about how much grace God has shown me, it becomes easier to extend that same grace to others. None of us are perfect, and we all need His mercy.

4. Set Boundaries if Needed – Forgiving doesn’t always mean reconciling. It’s okay to forgive and still protect your heart by setting healthy boundaries.

5. Give It Time – Forgiveness is often a process, not a one-time decision. Keep bringing it to God, and over time, He will heal the hurt.

If you’re struggling to forgive someone, I get it. It’s not easy, but it’s worth it. Don’t let that hurt take up space in your heart any longer. Hand it over to God, and let Him fill that space with His peace.

With love,
Kimberly