Life is a gift, but it can often feel like a puzzle. We strive to make it meaningful, to live in a way that matters—not just to ourselves but to those around us and, most importantly, to God. In Matthew 6:14-15, Jesus offers us a profound insight into what makes life truly worthwhile: forgiveness. It’s not an easy path, but it’s one that leads to freedom, healing, and a deeper connection with God. Forgiveness is not just about others; it’s about our own hearts and our relationship with the One who forgave us first.
Matthew 6:14-15 King James Version
14 For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you:
15 But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.
The Transforming Power of Forgiveness
Forgiveness is one of the most powerful acts we can engage in as Christians. It’s not just a moral obligation or a suggestion—it’s at the very heart of our faith. Think about it: the entire Gospel is built on forgiveness. God sent His Son to die for our sins so that we could be reconciled to Him. If forgiveness is central to God’s plan for humanity, how much more should it be central to our daily lives?
But let’s be honest—sometimes forgiveness feels impossible. The pain runs too deep. The betrayal cuts too close. How can we possibly let go of the hurt and extend grace to someone who doesn’t deserve it? The answer lies in remembering that forgiveness isn’t about the other person; it’s about you and your relationship with God. When we forgive, we’re not excusing the wrong or pretending it didn’t happen. Instead, we’re choosing to release the burden of bitterness and trust God with the outcome.
Why Forgiveness Matters
- It Restores Our Souls
Holding onto anger or resentment doesn’t hurt the person who wronged us—it hurts us. It’s like drinking poison and expecting the other person to suffer. Forgiveness frees us from that toxic cycle and allows God’s peace to fill our hearts. - It Reflects God’s Character
As Christians, we are called to be imitators of Christ (Ephesians 5:1). When we forgive, we mirror God’s love and mercy to the world around us. It’s a testimony of His grace working in our lives. - It Opens the Door to Healing
Unforgiveness keeps wounds open; forgiveness allows them to heal. It doesn’t mean forgetting what happened or ignoring justice—it means trusting God to handle what we cannot. - It Strengthens Our Relationship with God
Jesus’ words in Matthew 6:14-15 are clear: our willingness to forgive others directly impacts our relationship with our Heavenly Father. When we forgive, we align ourselves with His will and experience His grace more fully.
What Forgiveness Is—and What It Isn’t
Forgiveness doesn’t mean pretending everything is fine or allowing someone to continue hurting you. It doesn’t mean you have to reconcile with someone who remains toxic or unsafe. Forgiveness is about releasing the debt someone owes you—handing it over to God and trusting Him to bring justice in His time.
It’s also important to remember that forgiveness is a process, not a one-time event. Some wounds take time to heal, and that’s okay. What matters is your willingness to start the journey and invite God into it.
Practical Steps Toward Forgiveness
- Start with Prayer
Bring your pain before God honestly. Tell Him how you feel—He can handle it. Ask Him for the strength to forgive, even if you don’t feel ready yet. - Remember How Much You’ve Been Forgiven
Reflect on your own need for grace and how freely God has given it to you (Ephesians 4:32). Let this truth soften your heart toward others. - Take Small Steps
Forgiveness doesn’t always happen overnight. Start by releasing small grievances and work your way toward deeper hurts. - Speak Life Over Your Situation
Instead of replaying the offence in your mind, speak words of blessing over the person who hurt you (Luke 6:28). This isn’t easy, but it shifts your focus from bitterness to grace. - Seek Support if Needed
Sometimes forgiveness requires help from others—a trusted friend, pastor, or counselor who can guide you through the process.
A Heart Set Free
Imagine living with a heart unburdened by resentment—a heart free from anger and bitterness, open to joy and peace. That’s what forgiveness offers us: freedom. And this freedom isn’t just for us; it spills over into every area of our lives—our relationships, our work, even our worship.
When we choose forgiveness, we choose life—abundant life (John 10:10). We choose to live as Christ lived, loving even when it hurts and trusting that God will make all things right in His time.
A Personal Reflection
Take a moment today to reflect on your own life. Is there someone you need to forgive? Maybe it’s a family member who let you down, a friend who betrayed your trust, or even yourself for past mistakes. Or perhaps you’ve been holding onto anger toward God for something you don’t understand.
Whatever it is, lay it at His feet today. Ask Him for the courage and grace to let go and trust Him with your pain. Remember that forgiveness isn’t about being strong enough on your own—it’s about leaning on His strength and allowing His Spirit to work through you.
As you take this step of faith, know that God sees your heart and honours your obedience. He will meet you where you are and carry you through the process of healing and restoration.
Read More About This Devotional
Words of Wisdom: Deeply Engaged, Deeply Loved: A Life Anchored in Faith
Quote of the Day: “Turn to What Truly Matters”
Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for forgiving me when I didn’t deserve it—for loving me so much that You sent Your Son to pay the price for my sins. Lord, I confess that forgiveness is hard for me sometimes. The pain feels too big, too overwhelming—but I know that nothing is impossible with You.
Help me release my hurt into Your hands today. Give me the strength to forgive those who have wronged me and trust You with their hearts as well as mine. Teach me how to walk in Your grace daily so that my life reflects Your love and brings glory to Your name.
In Jesus’ name, I pray,
Amen.
Scripture Reading for the Day
Psalms 83 King James Version
1Keep not thou silence, O God: hold not thy peace, and be not still, O God.
2 For, lo, thine enemies make a tumult: and they that hate thee have lifted up the head.
3 They have taken crafty counsel against thy people, and consulted against thy hidden ones.
4 They have said, Come, and let us cut them off from being a nation; that the name of Israel may be no more in remembrance.
5 For they have consulted together with one consent: they are confederate against thee:
6 The tabernacles of Edom, and the Ishmaelites; of Moab, and the Hagarenes;
7 Gebal, and Ammon, and Amalek; the Philistines with the inhabitants of Tyre;
8 Assur also is joined with them: they have holpen the children of Lot. Selah.
9 Do unto them as unto the Midianites; as to Sisera, as to Jabin, at the brook of Kison:
10 Which perished at Endor: they became as dung for the earth.
11 Make their nobles like Oreb, and like Zeeb: yea, all their princes as Zebah, and as Zalmunna:
12 Who said, Let us take to ourselves the houses of God in possession.
13 O my God, make them like a wheel; as the stubble before the wind.
14 As the fire burneth a wood, and as the flame setteth the mountains on fire;
15 So persecute them with thy tempest, and make them afraid with thy storm.
16 Fill their faces with shame; that they may seek thy name, O Lord.
17 Let them be confounded and troubled for ever; yea, let them be put to shame, and perish:
18 That men may know that thou, whose name alone is Jehovah, art the most high over all the earth.
