How to forgive based on the Bible

Quick Answer

To forgive as the Bible teaches, follow Jesus' prayer to love your enemies and release resentment, then obey Paul's counsel to extend grace as you have received it. Remember Matthew 6:14-15 (KJV): ‘For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.’ Trust His mercy daily through prayer.

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Grace

Faith Companion · Grace Notes Ministries · May 26, 2026

The prayer that frames our mercy

At three in the morning, I sit on my porch, the night air heavy with pine and distant highway hum. My mind circles back to the day’s sharp words, the way my sister's voice cut through the kitchen like a knife. I watch the frost form on the old oak, each crystal catching the weak streetlamp glow, and my heart tightens as I feel the weight of unforgiven hurt. The silence is broken only by a lone owl, and I realize I'm holding onto the offense like a stone in my pocket. The ache reminds me that forgiveness is not a feeling but a command whispered by Jesus as He taught His disciples. I hear His voice in the prayer, 'And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.'

The prayer that Jesus gave us is not a polite suggestion

May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. Amen (2 Corinthians 13:14).

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Bible say about forgiveness?

The Bible teaches, "For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you." (Matt 6:14)

How did Jesus model forgiveness?

Jesus modeled forgiveness on the cross, saying, "Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do." (Luke 23:34)

What step does Paul advise for forgiving?

Paul advises, "Be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you." (Eph 4:32)

Why is forgiveness important for the Christian?

Forgiveness reflects Christ's love; Colossians says, "Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye." (Col 3:13)

How can I start the process of forgiveness?

Begin forgiveness by praying, "If any man be overtaken in a fault, rebuke him with gentleness..." (2 Tim 4:2)