Whoever would foster love covers over an offense, but whoever repeats the matter separates close friends. – Proverbs 17:9 Have you ever been hurt by someone you care about? Maybe a close friend said something that cut deep, or acted in a way that left you feeling betrayed. How do you respond when that happens? As followers of Jesus, we’re called to love as He loves and to forgive as He forgives. God doesn’t play favorites—He loves each of us equally and deeply. Yet, even when we say we forgive, we sometimes keep the memory of the offense tucked away, allowing it to fester inside us.
When Forgiveness Doesn’t Mean Forgetting
It’s easy to say the words, “I forgive you,” but much harder to release the lingering bitterness. Sometimes we replay the moment of hurt over and over in our minds, convincing ourselves we’ve let it go when, in truth, we’re holding onto resentment. We may even pretend everything is fine outwardly, but inside, pride and pain keep the wound alive. This quiet resentment can destroy friendships and close off our hearts to the peace and love of God. When we cling to offenses, we’re not just hurting our relationships—we’re robbing ourselves of the freedom that true forgiveness brings.
Remembering God’s Grace Toward You
When it feels impossible to forgive, start by remembering the grace you’ve received from God. Think about the times He’s forgiven you—completely and unconditionally. God doesn’t remind us of our past mistakes; He removes them as far as the east is from the west. That’s the kind of forgiveness we’re called to extend to others. Let your thoughts dwell on His mercy, not the wrongs done to you. The more you meditate on God’s love, the easier it becomes to reflect that same love toward others.
Let It Go and Live in Love
Let go of whatever resentment or grudge you’ve been holding. Choose to forgive fully and to forget completely. When we release offenses into God’s hands, we make room in our hearts for His peace to grow. Forgive. Forget. Love freely. That’s how we reflect the heart of Christ in our relationships.