Picture: Counsel #10 — Letting Go CWe 70.1
Forgiveness, as modeled in the Bible, is one of the primary requirements of a believer. Holding onto anger, hatred, and resentment creates emotional burdens that not only hinder spiritual growth but also destroy relationships and weaken bonds. CWe 70.2
As a Christian, God requires you to extend genuine forgiveness. Is this a hard thing to do? Of course—after all, we are human! Forgiving someone who has hurt you or crossed a boundary takes spiritual strength. That’s why it’s crucial to pray and ask the Holy Spirit for both the desire and the power to forgive when it feels impossible. Remember, forgiveness doesn’t mean you’re excusing the offense. It means you’re choosing to release the bitterness and resentment so the situation no longer has power over you. Allowing hate and anger to fester leads to a hardened heart, making it more difficult to hear God’s voice. And when we can’t hear God, we’re more liable to sin and fall prey to Satan’s influence—further distancing us from the peace that comes from letting go. Ultimately, forgiveness isn’t about the other person. It’s about eliminating stress and renewing a right spirit within so you can remain connected to God.[83] https://adventist.org/beliefs/bible/forgiveness CWe 70.3
“For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.” Matthew 6:14 NIV CWe 70.4
“He who is unforgiving, cuts off the very channel through which alone he can receive mercy from God.” Ellen White in Prayer, p. 239 CWe 70.5
Reflect: Are you currently holding a grudge against someone who wronged you? CWe 70.6
