Why Should We Forgive?

Written by Claire Dallimore

In today's society we often see forgiveness as a physical act – showing or telling someone we forgive them. But it's important to remember that forgiveness isn’t about pleasing the other person. Forgiveness is a small but powerful mental state, and yes telling someone we forgive them is a good idea, but it isn't forgiveness in itself.

We often hold grudges towards people who have harmed or done us wrong thinking that as long as we are being humane with them everything will be fine. But let's be honest, the worst thing someone has done to us will never compare to us as a whole, as sinners. Yet he has truly forgiven us every single time.

The question is why? Why would God choose to forgive us, knowing that we might do it again? The simple answer is because he loves us and wants a life with us. If God can forgive us then why can't we forgive the people who have hurt us?

In Matthew 6:14-15 it says:

“For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.”

And in Colossians 3:13 it says:

“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”

There are many more verses throughout the bible that talk about forgiveness. So why should we forgive? We should forgive because God has forgiven us. Even when it is hard, forgiveness is the right thing to do, and maybe finally forgiving them is the one thing that will help us move on.