How can I forgive those who have hurt me in the past?

Matthew 6:12“Forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us.”

Luke 23:34Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they don’t know what they are doing.”

Luke 6:37“Do not judge others, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn others, or it will all come back against you. Forgive others, and you will be forgiven.”

Ephesians 4:32Be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.

Just as God has forgiven you, even though you don’t deserve it, you must forgive others, even though they don’t deserve it. That is what forgiveness is all about—it is complete and undeserved. Only then can forgiveness work its miraculous healing power. Forgiveness does not erase the offense, but pardons the offender. Forgiveness sets the forgiver free from the slavery of holding something against someone else. Forgiveness is a choice, a commitment to reflect God’s love to others.