How to Forgive Someone Who Hurt Me

Forgiveness is one of the most painful journeys a believer can walk. It asks you to release what feels justified. It asks you to let go of what feels protective. It asks you to open your hand when your heart wants to close.

Forgiveness is not natural — it is supernatural.

Look at Joseph. His brothers didn’t just hurt him — they destroyed his life. They stripped him of his home, his safety, his childhood. Yet when he stood before them years later, he didn’t seek revenge.

He wept. He embraced them. He forgave them.

Not because they deserved it — but because Joseph refused to let bitterness become his identity.

Look at Jesus. He was betrayed with a kiss. Denied by His closest friend. Abandoned by those He loved. Crucified by the very people He came to save.

And yet He prayed, “Father, forgive them.”

Forgiveness is not saying, “It didn’t hurt.” Forgiveness is saying, “It hurt deeply — but it will not define me.”

Forgiveness is not reconciliation. Forgiveness is not trust. Forgiveness is not pretending.

Forgiveness is release.

It is placing the wound in God’s hands instead of carrying it in your own. It is choosing freedom over bitterness. It is choosing healing over hatred. It is choosing peace over poison.

Forgiveness is not a moment — it’s a process. Some days you’ll feel it. Some days you’ll choose it. Some days you’ll pray for the strength to want it.

But every step you take toward forgiveness is a step toward freedom.

God isn’t asking you to forget the pain. He’s asking you to let Him heal it.