Let’s Talk About Forgiveness
- Isabella Campolattaro
- Sep 26, 2025
- 2 min read
Forgiveness can feel impossible when the wound is deep. Yet Jesus gives us a framework that is both sobering and freeing. Forgiveness isn’t for the other person first—it’s for us.
1. Examine yourself before confronting another, coming in humility (Luke 17:3).
2. Talk privately first, aiming at reconciliation (Matthew 18:15).
3. If they repent, forgive—again and again (Matthew 18:22).
4. If they refuse, involve others or, in some cases, step away. It may even be obedience to God! (Matthew 18:17; 1 Corinthians 5:13; 2 Timothy 3:5; 2 Thessalonians 3:14–15; Matthew 10).
5. Regardless, forgive them in your heart, whether they repent or not.
6. Sometimes we can only forgive fully after creating distance—not only to stop ongoing harm. We may need to revisit forgiveness again and again as we heal.
7. And don’t forget to forgive yourself. Jesus’ forgiveness covers your failures too. (Romans 8:1)
HOW SERIOUS IS THIS MATTER TO GOD?
✦ If you refuse to forgive, God won’t forgive you. (Matthew 6:15)
✦ Forgive as Christ forgave you. (Colossians 3:13)
✦ Be kind—release the debt. (Ephesians 4:32)
✦ Don’t fake worship—go reconcile first. (Matthew 5:23–24)
✦ Unforgiveness can harden into destructive bitterness. (Hebrews 12:15)
Forgiveness is not denial, enabling, or excusing sin. It’s choosing to release the debt to God, trusting Him with justice and healing.
🕊 PRACTICE:
Journal or pray this week about someone you haven’t forgiven—including yourself. Ask Jesus to help you. What’s my part? How have I contributed, caused, or allowed this behavior?
PRAYER:
Jesus, your words are sobering and clear. Grant me grace to forgive as You have forgiven me. Help me confront humbly in the hope of restoration. If needed, give me strength to step away in obedience to You. Forgive my part, and lead me where I need to seek forgiveness. Teach me to receive Your mercy and forgive myself too. Thank You. I love You. 💖
DIG DEEPER:
Refreshed from Elul post of 9/2.
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