Forgive as You Have Been Forgiven

Introduction

Forgiveness is one of the deepest demonstrations of God’s love toward humanity. Through forgiveness, He reconciled us to Himself and gave us a new identity as His children. As believers, we are called to live out this same grace by forgiving those who hurt us. Forgiveness is not always easy, but it is essential for our walk with God, our spiritual growth, and our peace.

God’s Forgiveness Toward Us

The foundation of our ability to forgive lies in understanding how much God has forgiven us. The Word of God reminds us:

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

Before we came to know the Lord, we were lost in sin, undeserving of mercy. Yet, God in His love extended forgiveness freely through Jesus Christ. He did not wait for us to be perfect, nor did He forgive because we earned it. He forgave us because of His great mercy.

Romans 5:8 declares: “But God shows His love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

If God, who is holy and without sin, could forgive us for every wrong we committed, how much more should we extend that forgiveness to others?

Forgiveness Is a Command, Not an Option

Forgiving others is not a suggestion or a choice for the believer—it is a command.

Colossians 3:13 says: “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”

The words are clear: “Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” That means the standard of forgiveness is not our feelings, culture, or what others say, but the forgiveness we have received from God Himself.

When Peter asked Jesus how many times he should forgive his brother, suggesting seven times, Jesus responded:

“I do not say to you seven times, but seventy-seven times.” (Matthew 18:22)

This was not about keeping count, but about cultivating a heart that never stops forgiving.

Forgiveness Releases You From Bondage

Unforgiveness is a prison that traps not the offender, but the one holding the grudge. Holding on to bitterness, anger, or resentment allows the enemy to have control over your heart and mind.

Hebrews 12:15 warns: “See to it that no one fails to obtain the grace of God; that no ‘root of bitterness’ springs up and causes trouble, and by it many become defiled.”

Bitterness is a poison that spreads, affecting your prayer life, relationships, and peace of mind. Forgiveness, on the other hand, sets you free. It allows you to live in the liberty that Christ has given you.

Forgiveness Is an Act of Faith

Sometimes forgiveness feels impossible. The wound may be deep, the betrayal painful, and the offense unforgettable. Yet forgiveness is not based on how we feel; it is based on obedience to God.

2 Corinthians 5:7 says: “For we walk by faith, not by sight.”

Forgiving someone may not make sense to the natural mind, but when you choose to forgive, you act in faith, trusting God to bring healing and restoration. Forgiveness does not mean you condone wrong behavior. It means you choose to release the offense into God’s hands and trust Him as the righteous Judge.

The Example of Jesus

The greatest model of forgiveness is Jesus Christ Himself. As He hung on the cross, betrayed by friends, mocked by enemies, and abandoned by those He loved, He prayed one of the most powerful prayers ever spoken:

“Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” (Luke 23:34)

If the sinless Son of God could forgive those who crucified Him, how can we refuse to forgive those who wrong us? His example shows us that forgiveness is possible, even in the most painful circumstances.

Forgiveness and Prayer

Unforgiveness hinders our fellowship with God. In the Lord’s Prayer, Jesus taught us:

“Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.” (Matthew 6:12)

He further emphasized:

“For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” (Matthew 6:14–15)

This does not mean God’s forgiveness is conditional on ours, but it reveals a deep spiritual truth: a forgiven believer cannot withhold forgiveness from others. Our forgiveness toward others is evidence of our understanding of God’s forgiveness toward us.

Forgiveness Restores Relationships

Forgiveness is not only about your personal freedom; it is also about reconciliation. When Joseph’s brothers sold him into slavery, they wronged him deeply. Yet years later, when God elevated Joseph to power in Egypt, he forgave them, saying:

“You meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive.” (Genesis 50:20)

Forgiveness restored the broken relationship between Joseph and his family. Likewise, forgiveness has the power to mend relationships, heal wounds, and bring about reconciliation when hearts are humble and willing.

Forgiveness Is a Witness to the World

In a world filled with revenge, hatred, and division, forgiveness sets the believer apart. When you forgive, you demonstrate the character of God and bear witness to His transforming power in your life.

John 13:35 says: “By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”

Forgiveness is love in action. It speaks louder than words and reveals the nature of God to those around you.

Steps to Forgive as You Have Been Forgiven

Acknowledge the hurt – Do not pretend the offense did not affect you. Bring it before God in honesty.
Remember God’s forgiveness toward you – Reflect on how much He has forgiven you.
Make the decision to forgive – Forgiveness is a choice, not a feeling.
Pray for the offender – Jesus said, “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” (Matthew 5:44).
Release the offense to God – Trust Him to bring justice and healing.
Walk in freedom – Do not dwell on the offense again. Replace bitterness with love.

Conclusion

Beloved, forgiveness is not easy, but it is necessary. To forgive is to imitate Christ. To forgive is to walk in love. To forgive is to show that you truly understand the depth of God’s mercy toward you.

Remember the words of Jesus:

“Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.” (Matthew 5:7)

May you always choose forgiveness over bitterness, love over hatred, and grace over revenge. As you forgive others, you will experience deeper peace, restored joy, and a closer walk with your heavenly Father.