Forgive: Wipe the Slate CleanSample

When someone wrongs you, the natural response is often to hold onto the hurt. You feel justified in your anger, clinging to it to protect yourself from further pain. But this can quickly become a heavy burden, weighing on you emotionally and spiritually.

Forgiveness isn’t about letting someone off the hook or pretending that what happened was okay. It’s about creating space for healing in your own heart. When you confront the person who hurt you, not with bitterness but with the intent to restore the relationship, it can shift everything. It doesn’t guarantee the outcome will be what you hope for, but it opens the door for something better, freedom. You're no longer bound to the hurt because you've done your part by addressing it and offering forgiveness.

That’s not to say it’s easy. Setting aside your pride, admitting the pain, and then choosing to forgive takes strength. It means being vulnerable again, which can feel risky. But in doing so, you make room for reconciliation, both with the person and within yourself. Forgiveness isn’t a weakness; it’s a courageous act that frees you to move forward without the weight of resentment.

So today, think about the hurts you've been holding onto. Is there someone you need to talk to? Take that step toward freedom. It's not easy, but it's worth it.

Think it Over

How has holding onto unforgiveness affected your heart, and what freedom might you experience by letting it go?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, help me to release the hurt and pain I’ve been carrying. Please give me the courage to confront those wounds. Soften my heart and guide my words as I seek to restore relationships. Help me trust You in this process, knowing that forgiveness is a path to freedom. In Jesus name, Amen.