Counsel #6 — What If They Don’t Ask For Forgiveness?

Picture: Counsel #6 — What If They Don’t Ask For Forgiveness?CR 162.1

The Christian ideal of forgiveness often presents a challenge when the offender shows no remorse or seeks no reconciliation. Yet, Scripture calls us to a higher standard. We are commanded to love our enemies and to forgive those who wrong us. This doesn’t mean condoning their actions or forgetting the hurt inflicted. Rather, it's a conscious decision to release bitterness and resentment, trusting in God's justice and mercy.CR 162.2

While repentance and confession are essential components of reconciliation, they are not prerequisites for our forgiveness. Our ability to forgive, even in the absence of remorse from the offender, reflects God's grace in our lives. By choosing to forgive those who have wronged us, we demonstrate a heart transformed by the love of Christ, and we position ourselves to experience the healing power of forgiveness.^{[158]https://adventistreview.org/news/why-should-i-ever-forgive-you/}CR 162.3

“… If anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do.” Colossians 3:13 NKJVCR 162.4

“We should not think that unless those who have injured us confess the wrong we are justified in withholding from them our forgiveness. It is their part, no doubt, to humble their hearts by repentance and confession; but we are to have a spirit of compassion toward those who have trespassed against us, whether or not they confess their faults.” Ellen White in The Faith I Live By, p. 131CR 162.5

Reflect: How can you cultivate a heart of compassion for someone who has hurt you and expresses no remorse?CR 162.6