The burden of guilt can be cumbersome, often debilitating, and the enemy will do everything in his power to continually remind you of your wrongdoings. It is a straightforward tactic, really: the worse you feel about the things you have done, the less likely you are to praise God. Now it is essential to know that there is a way to become free from that burden. Healing starts with knowing when and how to forgive someone.

“If you see any brother or sister commit a sin that does not lead to death, you should pray and God will give them life. I refer to those whose sin does not lead to death. There is a sin that leads to death. I am not saying that you should pray about that.” – 1 John 5:16

These things must have occurred for freedom to happen: You have accepted Jesus Christ as your Savior by Him dying on the cross for your sins. You believe that He was raised from the dead on the third day and ascended into Heaven to sit on the Almighty God’s right hand. You confess and repent of your sins, and you will be forgiven.

Matthew 18:21-22, “Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?” Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.”

Forgiveness is so vital for peace. It sets free the one who sinned, but it also sets the forgiver free. Forgiveness allows the healing process to start. Please note: forgiveness is not saying that what was done is right; it does not deny that there has been hurt caused, nor does it establish a relationship. Forgiveness is probably the most challenging thing that God asks from us; however, it is possible with His amazing grace.

Hearing “I’m sorry, please forgive me” doesn’t immediately make everything better, but for the one whose trust has been broken or who has been hurt so deeply, it means so much. Further than that, even without human forgiveness, God’s grace will help us. With God’s grace through Jesus Christ, the hurt can be used to catapult you into a relationship with the Savior.

God is faithful and just, and He will forgive you!