Why Forgiveness Matters: A Lesson From Jesus You Can’t Ignore
Have you ever been deeply hurt, only to hear someone say, “Just forgive and move on”? If that phrase felt like a slap in the face, you’re not alone. Many believers silently carry wounds because forgiving feels unfair. As someone who’s studied Scripture, taught it, and struggled through it myself, I can tell you Jesus understands that pain. But He also offers a way through it.
In this blog, we’ll explore why forgiveness matters more than you may realize. We’ll uncover what Jesus teaches through the parable of the unforgiving servant. And most importantly, you’ll leave with a fresh perspective, renewed empathy, and practical steps to finally let go.
The Story That Exposes Us All
Jesus once told a powerful story in Matthew 18:23–35. In it, a king wanted to settle debts with his servants. One servant owed him a huge sum he couldn’t repay. Surprisingly, the king had mercy and forgave the entire debt.
But then, something shocking happened.
That same servant found a man who owed him a small amount. Instead of showing mercy, he demanded full payment. When the man couldn’t pay, he threw him into prison.
When the king heard this, he was furious. He called the forgiven man wicked and handed him over to be punished. Jesus ended the parable with a strong warning: “This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother or sister from your heart.”
Why We Struggle With Forgiveness
Let’s be honest. It’s easy to receive God’s forgiveness, but it’s hard to give it to others especially when they don’t apologize or seem to care. Deep wounds can linger for years. We justify our bitterness by saying, “They don’t deserve it.” But here’s the truth:
Neither did we.
Each of us has rebelled against God. We’ve broken His laws, hurt others, and turned our backs on Him. Yet He still forgave us through the sacrifice of Jesus.
That’s why forgiveness matters.
It’s not about ignoring pain or pretending it didn’t happen. It’s about choosing healing over hate. It’s about reflecting the mercy we’ve already received.
Empathy Makes Forgiveness Possible
Forgiveness doesn’t mean forgetting. It means seeing people through a new lens, one of empathy. That requires a shift in perspective.
We don’t know everyone’s story. We don’t see their childhood wounds, mental battles, or past trauma. But God does.
When Jesus came to earth, He didn’t just preach forgiveness, He lived it. He wept, bled, and bore our sins. He placed Himself in our shoes to understand our suffering. That’s empathy in action.
If we follow Jesus, we’re called to do the same.
A Personal Story of Letting Go
I once held a grudge for years against someone who betrayed me. Every time their name came up, bitterness bubbled inside me. I convinced myself I had forgiven them until I saw them again.
God gently showed me that I hadn’t really let go.
So I prayed, “Lord, I want to forgive, but I don’t know how.” Over time, He softened my heart. I began to see that person through God’s eyes, as someone broken, just like me.
Forgiveness didn’t change the past, but it changed me.
What’s at Stake If You Don’t Forgive?
Jesus said, “If you forgive others, your Father will forgive you. But if you do not forgive others, your Father will not forgive your sins” (Matthew 6:14–15). That’s not a suggestion it’s a warning.
Unforgiveness becomes a prison of our own making. It poisons our peace, blocks our prayers, and hardens our hearts. But when we forgive, we break free.
Who Do You Need to Forgive Today?
You may be thinking, “They don’t deserve it.” But forgiveness isn’t about them, it’s about you and God. It’s about obeying Him and trusting Him to bring justice.
Ask Him to show you someone you need to forgive. Then, with His help, take the first step.
Reflect and Respond
Take this quick quiz: Are You Holding On to Unforgiveness?
(Click your answers and reflect honestly.)
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Do you often replay past hurts in your mind?
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Do you avoid someone who once wronged you?
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Do you secretly hope they face consequences?
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Do you struggle to pray for their well-being?
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Do you feel stuck in emotional pain?
If you answered “yes” to 3 or more, it may be time to surrender that burden to God.
Quick Poll: What’s the Hardest Part of Forgiveness?
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Trusting the person again
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Letting go of the pain
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Not receiving an apology
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Fear of being hurt again
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Feeling like justice wasn’t done
Vote below and see what others are saying.
Final Thoughts: Forgiveness Isn’t Optional—It’s Freedom
To forgive doesn’t mean to forget, excuse, or ignore wrongdoing. It means trusting God with the outcome and releasing the grip that bitterness has on your soul.
Forgiveness matters because mercy matters. Empathy matters. And most of all, your healing matters.
Let Jesus lead you to the freedom He already purchased for you.
Before You Go:
🌱 Ask God to reveal anyone you’re holding unforgiveness toward.
📝 Write a letter you don’t send—just to get it out.
🙏 Pray for strength and healing, even if the feelings aren’t there yet.
If this post helped you, share it with someone who needs hope. Forgiveness is hard—but it’s worth it.
Would you like a downloadable forgiveness prayer guide? 💌
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