“Bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do.” — Colossians 3:13

Forgiveness is a powerful principle in God’s Kingdom—both to receive and to extend to others. Jesus was clear: “If you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses” (Matthew 6:15). This is not meant as condemnation—it is a reminder that unforgiveness blocks the flow of God’s mercy in our lives.

Through the cross, Jesus made a way for full and final forgiveness. The scriptures tell us “In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace” (Ephesians 1:7). This grace cannot be earned; it is freely given. But it does not stop with us—God calls us to extend the same grace we have received to others.

Holding on to bitterness steals our peace and opens the door to the enemy. Forgiveness, though not always easy, leads to healing and freedom. It is not based on feeling—it is a choice to trust God with justice and let go of the pain. 1 Peter 2:23 tells us that when Jesus was treated wrongly, He “kept entrusting Himself to the One who judges justly.” We need to do the same!

Today is the day to release whatever has been holding you back. Forgive, not because they deserve it, but because you’ve been forgiven. Here is a simple prayer you can pray:

God, thank You for the forgiveness You have given me through Jesus Christ. Today, I choose to forgive others as You have forgiven me. I lay down all bitterness, pain, and resentment at Your feet. Please fill me with Your peace and heal every broken place. In Jesus’ name, Amen.