Forgiveness is a central command in our walk with Christ, but pride often stands in the way of extending forgiveness to those who have wronged us. Unforgiveness keeps us bound in bitterness, while God’s desire is for us to walk in freedom and peace. Matthew 6:14-15 gives a clear directive: “For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” When we humble ourselves and forgive, we open the door to God’s grace and healing in our lives.
Today’s Scripture:
“For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” – Matthew 6:14-15 (NKJV)
The Relationship Between Pride and Unforgiveness
Pride and unforgiveness are closely intertwined. When we are hurt, pride whispers that we have a right to hold on to that pain, that forgiveness makes us weak, or that the other person doesn’t deserve our forgiveness. But pride blinds us to the truth: that forgiveness is not about the other person—it’s about our obedience to God and our own spiritual well-being.
Holding on to unforgiveness creates a barrier between us and God. As today’s scripture warns, if we withhold forgiveness from others, we also forfeit God’s forgiveness in our own lives. Forgiveness is an act of humility, a recognition that just as God has forgiven us, we are called to extend that same grace to others.
Why Forgiveness is Essential for Spiritual Growth
- Forgiveness Reflects God’s Character
Forgiveness is at the heart of the gospel. Through the sacrifice of Jesus, we have been forgiven of all our sins, even though we didn’t deserve it. Ephesians 4:32 reminds us, “And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.” When we choose to forgive, we are reflecting the character of Christ and extending the same grace we have received.
Holding on to unforgiveness distorts our relationship with God because it denies the core message of the gospel—that forgiveness is a gift, not something earned. By forgiving others, we mirror the love and mercy God has shown to us. - Forgiveness Brings Healing and Freedom
Unforgiveness is like a heavy burden that weighs us down. It keeps us stuck in the past, replaying old hurts and holding onto bitterness. But when we forgive, we release that burden and experience true freedom. Colossians 3:13 encourages us, “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”
Forgiveness does not mean that we condone the wrong or forget the hurt, but it does mean that we release our right to seek revenge or hold a grudge. This act of releasing brings healing to our hearts and restores our peace.
Practical Steps to Be Quick to Forgive
- Humble Yourself Before God
Forgiveness begins with humility. Pride often tells us that forgiving someone makes us weak or that we are justified in holding onto our pain. But God calls us to humble ourselves and follow His example of mercy. James 4:10 says, “Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up.”
When you feel resistant to forgiving someone, start by praying for God to soften your heart and help you lay down your pride. A humble heart is willing to forgive because it recognizes that we have been forgiven much. - Pray for the Person Who Hurt You
One of the most effective ways to move toward forgiveness is to pray for the person who wronged you. Jesus tells us in Matthew 5:44 to “love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you.” Praying for the person who hurt you may be difficult at first, but over time, it changes your perspective and softens your heart toward them.
Prayer also invites God into the process, allowing Him to heal your heart and guide you through the journey of forgiveness. - Remember God’s Forgiveness
When forgiveness feels impossible, take time to reflect on how much God has forgiven you. Romans 5:8 reminds us that “while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” We didn’t deserve God’s forgiveness, yet He offered it freely. In the same way, we are called to extend forgiveness to others, even when it feels undeserved.
Remembering God’s grace helps us let go of the need for vengeance and empowers us to forgive from the heart. - Release the Desire for Revenge
Forgiveness means releasing the desire to make the other person pay for their wrongs. Romans 12:19 tells us, “Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, ‘Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,’ says the Lord.” God is the ultimate judge, and we can trust Him to bring justice in His time.
By releasing the desire for revenge, we free ourselves from the cycle of anger and bitterness. Trusting God with the outcome allows us to move forward in peace, knowing that He is in control.
Conclusion
Forgiveness is not always easy, but it is essential to our spiritual growth and relationship with God. As Matthew 6:14-15 reminds us, forgiving others is directly linked to receiving God’s forgiveness. When we humble ourselves and forgive, we reflect the character of Christ, experience healing and freedom, and walk in obedience to God’s commands. Let us be quick to forgive, laying aside pride and embracing the grace that God has extended to us.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for the incredible forgiveness You have given me through Christ. Help me to humble myself and forgive those who have wronged me. Soften my heart, and remove any pride that stands in the way of extending Your grace to others. Teach me to pray for those who hurt me, and release the desire for revenge. May I reflect Your love and mercy in all my relationships. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
