Forgiveness Isn’t Fair—It’s Freedom

“The saying is true: ‘Holding onto resentment is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to die.’”

Maria MacEachen

Forgiveness is one of the hardest things we are called to do, yet it is also one of the most freeing. Jesus makes it clear that forgiveness isn’t just a suggestion—it’s a command that leads to healing, both for ourselves and our relationships. As we dive into this devotional, may we open our hearts to God’s truth and step into the freedom that comes from fully releasing the weight of unforgiveness.

1. Freedom in Forgiveness

“Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, ‘Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?’ Jesus answered, ‘I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.’” Matthew 18:21-22

Forgiveness is hard. It’s one of those things we know we should do, yet when it comes to actually doing it, we hesitate. We replay the hurt in our minds, we justify our anger, and we think, “They don’t deserve my forgiveness.” But Jesus calls us to something greater. He challenges Peter—and us—to forgive, not just once or twice, but endlessly. The number seventy-seven isn’t meant to be a mathematical formula. It’s Jesus’ way of saying: There is no limit to forgiveness.

Think about that for a moment. No limit.

This doesn’t mean forgiveness is easy or that it dismisses the pain we've experienced. But Jesus is calling us to release the heavy burden of unforgiveness so that we can walk in freedom.

2. Signs of Unforgiveness

Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts!” Psalm 139:23

Sometimes, we think we’ve moved on from a hurt, but unforgiveness can linger in subtle ways. Have you ever:

- Replayed a past hurt over and over in your mind?

- Felt anger or resentment rise when you hear someone’s name?

- Taken small, petty actions to “get back” at someone?

- Felt justified in your bitterness?

Unforgiveness doesn’t just hurt the other person—it poisons our own hearts. The saying is true: “Holding onto resentment is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to die.” God wants to set us free. But first, we must allow Him to reveal where unforgiveness is hiding in our hearts.

3. How Do I Forgive?

“If your brother or sister sins against you, rebuke them; and if they repent, forgive them. Even if they sin against you seven times in a day… you must forgive them.” Luke 17:3-4

Forgiveness is a process, not a one-time event. Here are three practical steps to begin forgiving:

1. Pray for the person who hurt you

   - This may feel impossible at first, but prayer changes our hearts.

   - Ask God to bless them and soften your heart toward them.

2. Release the desire for justice to God

Romans 12:19 says, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.”

   - Letting go doesn’t mean what they did was okay or making excuses for the person—it means trusting God to be the ultimate judge.

3. Take small steps toward forgiveness

   - Sometimes, we won’t feel like forgiving, but we can choose to forgive anyway.

   - Healing takes time. Give yourself grace.

Today, you have a choice. Will you hold onto resentment, or will you release it into the Lord’s hands?

Prayer: “Lord, today, I choose to forgive. I may not feel like it, but I trust You. Heal my heart, heal my soul, and help me walk in grace and freedom. Amen.”

Challenge: Take a bold step today. Write down the name of someone you need to forgive and pray for them. Let today be the day you walk in freedom.