What Does the Bible Say About Forgiveness?
Let’s be honest—forgiveness sounds beautiful… until you actually have to do it.
Whether you’re struggling to forgive someone who hurt you, carrying guilt from something in your past, or just wondering how forgiveness really works, you’re not alone.
Here’s the good news: the Bible doesn’t avoid your questions. It meets you in them—with grace, truth, and healing.
In this post, we’ll explore:
What forgiveness means in the Bible
What Jesus teaches about forgiveness
How to ask God for forgiveness
How to forgive others (even when it’s hard)
Bible verses to anchor you in truth
What Is Forgiveness in the Bible?
Forgiveness is releasing the offense, letting go of resentment, and choosing grace—not because someone deserves it, but because Jesus gave it to you first.
It’s not pretending something didn’t happen. It’s saying: “I’m not going to carry this anymore.”
God’s Forgiveness Toward Us
“As far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us.” — Psalm 103:12
God’s forgiveness is complete. No half-measures. No guilt trips. Just grace.
We’re Called to Forgive Too
“Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” — Colossians 3:13
Forgiveness isn’t just something we receive—it’s something we’re meant to give.
Jesus Is Forgiveness
From the cross, Jesus prayed:
“Father, forgive them…” — Luke 23:34
Even in suffering, Jesus made a way for grace to win.
Bible Verses About Forgiveness
If you’re looking for clarity and peace, start with these truths:
Ephesians 4:32 – “Be kind… forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”
Matthew 6:14–15 – “If you forgive others… your Father will also forgive you.”
1 John 1:9 – “If we confess… He is faithful and just and will forgive…”
Mark 11:25 – “Forgive them, so your Father… may forgive you.”
How to Ask God for Forgiveness
You don’t need to earn it. Just come as you are—honestly, humbly, and ready to receive grace.
1. Recognize the Need
“For all have sinned…” — Romans 3:23
We’ve all missed the mark. That’s why forgiveness is available to everyone.
2. Confess with Honesty
“I will confess my transgressions… and You forgave…” — Psalm 32:5
3. Repent and Turn
“Repent… so that your sins may be wiped out…” — Acts 3:19
Repentance isn’t about being perfect—it’s about changing direction.
4. Trust Jesus Fully
“Without the shedding of blood, there is no forgiveness…” — Hebrews 9:22
Jesus paid the price so you could walk free.
Why Forgiveness Matters
Forgiveness doesn’t just heal others. It heals you.
✅ Forgiveness Brings Freedom
“Come to me… and I will give you rest.” — Matthew 11:28
You weren’t meant to carry bitterness forever. Lay it down.
🔁 Forgiveness Restores Relationships
“God… reconciled us to Himself… and gave us the ministry of reconciliation.” — 2 Corinthians 5:18
💖 Forgiveness Reflects God’s Love
“By this everyone will know that you are my disciples…” — John 13:35
We forgive not just because it’s right—but because it looks like Jesus.
How to Forgive Someone Who Hurt You
It’s not easy. But it is possible—with God’s help.
🙏 Start with Prayer
“Pray for those who persecute you.” — Matthew 5:44
Pray for their healing. Ask God to change your heart too.
💡 Choose to Forgive
Forgiveness is a decision before it’s a feeling.
“Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” — Colossians 3:13
💪 Rely on God's Strength
“I can do all this through Him who gives me strength.” — Philippians 4:13
🕊️ Release the Offense
“Do not take revenge… leave room for God.” — Romans 12:19
Let go of justice. Trust God with the outcome.
Jesus Is the Heart of Forgiveness
Everything we believe about forgiveness points back to Jesus.
He paid for your sin (Isaiah 53:5)
He modeled forgiveness in pain (Luke 23:34)
He empowers you to forgive others (John 15:5)
Forgiveness isn’t a “nice thing.” It’s a Jesus thing.
Living a Life of Grace
So what does the Bible say about forgiveness?
It says that you are forgiven, fully and freely.
It says that you are called to forgive, even when it’s hard.
It says that forgiveness brings peace to your soul and healing to your relationships.
And through Jesus, you can live a life marked by grace, not grudges.
Need Support on the Journey? Let’s Walk Together.