“And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.” – Matthew 6:12
Over the past few weeks, we’ve explored what it means to honor the holiness of God (Matt. 6:9), align ourselves with His will (Matt. 6:10), and live in daily dependence on His provision (Matt. 6:11). Each step in this journey builds a deeper relationship with God and reveals more of His character. Now, we come to challenging yet liberating truth: forgiveness.
Forgiveness isn’t just a request we make of God—it’s a rhythm we’re called to live out. Jesus connects our experience of God’s forgiveness to our willingness to forgive others. This isn’t transactional, as though God withholds His grace until we act, but it is transformative. Forgiveness frees us from bitterness and resentment, allowing God’s love to flow through us.
Forgiveness Is hard. Let’s be honest: forgiveness doesn’t always feel fair. Whether it’s the coworker who took credit for your idea, the friend who betrayed your trust, or the family member who never seems to acknowledge their wrongs, letting go can feel like letting them off the hook.
But forgiveness isn’t about excusing the offense or denying the pain. It’s about releasing the power it has over you. When we forgive, we’re not saying, “What you did was okay.” We’re saying, “I refuse to let your actions control my heart any longer.”
The weight of unforgiveness is heavy. Picture carrying a backpack filled with heavy stones. Each stone represents an offense you’ve held onto. Over time, the weight becomes unbearable, slowing you down and stealing your joy. Forgiveness is taking those stones out, one by one, and handing them to God. It doesn’t erase the hurt, but it lightens your load and gives you the strength to move forward.
Think about that one person in your life who seems to push all your buttons. Maybe it’s the mom in your kid’s class who always seems to have it all together, and she subtly lets you know where you fall short. Or the friend who only calls when she needs something, leaving you feeling used and unappreciated. It’s tempting to let those offenses pile up, building walls of resentment. But when we choose forgiveness, we tear down those walls and create space for grace to grow.
God doesn’t ask us to do anything He hasn’t already done. In Christ, He forgave us completely—past, present, and future. If He, the holy and perfect Creator, can forgive us for our countless sins, how can we withhold forgiveness from others?
This doesn’t mean it’s easy, and it doesn’t mean it happens overnight. Forgiveness is often a process, but it starts with a choice: to let go, to trust God with the outcome, and to believe that His grace is enough.
As we embrace the reciprocity of forgiveness, we’re not just following a command—we’re experiencing freedom. The chains of bitterness fall away, and our hearts are softened, ready to receive and reflect God’s love.
Next week, we’ll dive into more of the Lord’s Prayer, exploring what it means to accept divine protection (Matt. 6:13). But for now, let’s sit with this truth: forgiveness isn’t just for them—it’s for you. Will you trust God enough to let go? As always, in love.
And so we pray - forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.
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