Why should we forgive? Not forgiving only hurts you: “Resentment is like drinking poison and then hoping it will kill your enemies.” Nelson Mandela

We extend grace to others:

Because God has forgiven and extended grace to us

Ephesians 4:31-32 says, “Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander along with every other form of malice.” (cruel talk) “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ, God forgave you.”

“Be gentle and forbearing with one another and, if one has a difference (a grievance or complaint) against another, readily pardoning each other; even as the Lord has freely forgiven you, so must you also (forgive)” Colossians 3:13 Amp.

We forgive so that we will be forgiven

“For if you forgive people their trespasses – their reckless and willful sins, leaving them, letting them go, and giving up resentment – your heavenly Father will also forgive you” Matthew 6:14.

So that our prayers will not be hindered

It is a sin to hold a grudge against anyone – sin separates us from God and having our prayers answered.  “And whenever you stand praying, if you have anything against anyone, forgive him and let it drop (leave it, let it go), in order that your Father Who is in heaven may also forgive you your (own) failings and shortcomings and let them drop” Mark 11:25 Amp.

Because God has told us to for our good

Jesus declared in Mark 11:25 – “If you hold anything against anyone FORGIVE him.” – it is a command.

Because if we don’t forgive we give the enemy a foothold

“If you are angry, don’t sin by nursing your grudge. Don’t let the sun go down with you still angry – get over it quickly; for when you are angry you give a mighty foothold to the devil” Ephesians 4:26.

Because when we let go of the offence we are released

Luke 6:37 says, ”Forgive and you will be forgiven”. The literal rendering of this verse is, “If you release you shall be released”.  This includes forgiving others and forgiving ourselves!  Often this choice has to be made daily until you are able to release the one who has hurt you.

Watch this video.

Related Links:
How do I let go of past hurts?
https://breakfreetoday.org/past-hurts/

Embracing and Sharing God’s Grace: breakfreetoday.org/amazing-grace