FLOYD ROGERS

When someone harms you, it causes deep pain. But holding onto anger or refusing to forgive causes even more harm to yourself. Forgiveness is not about how you feel in the moment. It is a choice you make, no matter how hurt you are.

You might think, “But I’m still in pain. How can I forgive?” The truth is, forgiving does not mean you will suddenly feel love or joy toward the person who hurt you. It also does not mean you will forget what happened. The key is deciding not to hold their actions against them any longer.

Even if your heart aches and the memories remain, you can still say, “I forgive them. I won’t carry this anger anymore.” This choice brings peace to your spirit and prevents further damage to your own heart. It frees you from the heavy burden of bitterness.

For if you forgive other people for their offenses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.

Matthew 6:14