IMPORTANCE OF FORGIVENESS

Forgiveness is essential to the Christian life because it reflects the nature of God Himself. God is a forgiving God who extends grace and mercy to all who come to Him in repentance and faith.

Mark 11:25: "And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins."

As Christians, we are called to imitate God's forgiveness in our relationships with others.

 Ephesians 4:32 says, "Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you."

When we forgive others, we reflect the love and grace of God to a world that desperately needs it. Forgiveness also allows us to let go of bitterness and anger and to experience the peace and freedom that come from letting go of our hurt and pain.

SEVEN MAJOR BENEFITS OF FORGIVENESS

Forgiveness is a powerful and transformative act that can bring numerous benefits to our lives. From reducing stress and anxiety to fostering closer relationships and improving our mental health, forgiveness has been shown to have a profound impact on our overall well-being. 

Reduces Stress and Anxiety

Holding onto resentment, anger, and bitterness can take a toll on our physical and emotional health, leading to increased stress and anxiety. By choosing to forgive those who have wronged us, we can release the burden of negative emotions and experience greater peace and calm in our lives. In Matthew 6:14-15, Jesus says, "For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins."

Improved Relationships

Forgiveness can also lead to improved relationships with others. When we choose to forgive those who have hurt us, we open the door to reconciliation and deeper connections with those around us. In Colossians 3:13, Paul urges us to "Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you." Isaiah 43:25, God promises, "I, even I, am he who blots out your transgressions, for my own sake, and remembers your sins no more."

Improved Physical Health

Forgiveness has also been shown to have a positive impact on our physical health. Studies have found that those who practice forgiveness have lower blood pressure, reduced levels of stress hormones, and better immune function. In Matthew 9:2-7

2 Then behold, they brought to Him a paralytic lying on a bed. When Jesus saw their faith, He said to the paralytic, “Son, be of good cheer; your sins are forgiven you.”

3 And at once some of the scribes said within themselves, “This Man blasphemes!”

4 But Jesus, knowing their thoughts, said, “Why do you think evil in your hearts? 5 For which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven you,’ or to say, ‘Arise and walk’? 6 But that you may know that the Son of Man has power on earth to forgive sins”—then He said to the paralytic, “Arise, take up your bed, and go to your house.” 7 And he arose and departed to his house.

8 Now when the multitudes saw it, they marveled[a] and glorified God, who had given such power to men.

Greater Spiritual Growth

Forgiveness can also lead to greater spiritual growth and a deeper connection with God. By imitating God's forgiveness in our own lives, we can experience a closer relationship with Him and a greater sense of purpose and meaning. In Ephesians 4:32, Paul tells us, "Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you."

Mathew 6-14-15 for if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you

for if ye forgive men their trespasses, neither will your father forgive your trespasses.

Increased Compassion and Empathy

Forgiveness can also lead to increased compassion and empathy for others. When we experience forgiveness ourselves, we are more likely to extend that same forgiveness to others, even those who have wronged us. In Luke 23:34, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing."

Freedom from Resentment and Bitterness

Forgiveness can free us from the burden of resentment and bitterness. By choosing to forgive, we can let go of the negative emotions that have been holding us back and embrace a life of freedom and joy. In Psalm 103:12, "As far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us."

Romans 12:17-21: "Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord. On the contrary: ‘If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.’ Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good."