Holding onto unforgiveness can weigh heavily on our hearts and souls, hindering our growth and peace. Today, we’ll turn to the Bible for guidance and healing when dealing with unforgiveness.
These verses offer a profound understanding of the power of forgiveness, the consequences of harboring grudges, and the freedom that comes from releasing bitterness.
Whether you’re struggling to forgive someone or seeking to live a life free from the burden of unforgiveness, these scriptures will inspire and transform your perspective. Join us as we explore the liberating message of forgiveness as found in the Bible’s teachings.
Also Read: Bible Verses About Success And Hard Work
Bible Verses About Unforgiveness
Matthew 6:14-15
“For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of forgiveness in the Christian faith. It teaches that in order to receive God’s forgiveness, we must first extend forgiveness to others. Unforgiveness creates a barrier between us and God, hindering our spiritual growth and relationship with Him. It is a reminder that forgiveness is not optional but essential for the well-being of our own souls.
Mark 11:25
“And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.”
Jesus reiterates the significance of forgiveness in this verse. When we approach God in prayer, we are called to examine our hearts and let go of any grudges or grievances we may be holding. Forgiveness is a prerequisite for receiving God’s forgiveness, and it demonstrates our obedience and trust in Him.
Luke 6:37
“Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.”
This verse reminds us of the correlation between judgment, condemnation, and forgiveness. When we refrain from judging and condemning others, we open ourselves up to the possibility of being freely forgiven by God. It challenges us to extend grace and mercy to others, just as God has extended it to us.
Ephesians 4:31-32
“Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”
Paul emphasizes the need to let go of negative emotions such as bitterness, anger, and malice. Instead, we are called to show kindness and compassion, extending forgiveness to one another. This verse reminds us that our forgiveness of others should mirror the forgiveness we have received from God through Christ.
Colossians 3:13
“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”
Paul encourages the Colossian believers to bear with each other and willingly forgive those who have wronged them. By doing so, they reflect the grace and forgiveness they have received from the Lord. This verse emphasizes the communal aspect of forgiveness, reminding us of our responsibility to forgive and reconcile with others in the body of Christ.
1 John 1:9
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”
This verse reminds us of the unconditional forgiveness available to us through Christ. When we come before God with a repentant heart and confess our sins, He faithfully forgives us and cleanses us from all unrighteousness. It reassures us that no matter how grievous our sins may be, God is always ready to extend His forgiveness and restore us.
2 Chronicles 7:14
“If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.”
This verse speaks of forgiveness on a national level. God promises to forgive the sins of a repentant nation when they turn from their wicked ways, seek Him, and humble themselves in prayer. It highlights the transformative power of forgiveness, not only for individuals but also for society as a whole.
Psalm 32:5
“Then I acknowledged my sin to you and did not cover up my iniquity. I said, ‘I will confess my transgressions to the LORD.’ And you forgave the guilt of my sin.”
This verse expresses the personal experience of the psalmist, highlighting the freedom and relief that come from confessing our sins to the Lord. When we are open and honest about our wrongdoing, God readily forgives us and removes the guilt of our sins. It encourages us to approach God with sincerity and repentance, knowing that He is waiting to extend His forgiveness.
Psalm 86:5
“You, Lord, are forgiving and good, abounding in love to all who call to you.”
This verse presents a beautiful portrait of God’s character. It declares that the Lord is forgiving and full of love towards all who call upon Him. It assures us that no matter how great our sin, God is always ready to forgive and demonstrate His goodness. It encourages us to approach Him with confidence and trust in His loving-kindness.
Isaiah 43:25
“I, even I, am he who blots out your transgressions, for my own sake, and remembers your sins no more.”
God speaks through the prophet Isaiah, proclaiming His ability to wipe away our transgressions. He promises to not only forgive but also forget our sins. This verse reminds us of God’s unfathomable mercy and grace, assuring us that He will never hold our past sins against us. It brings comfort and reassurance, knowing that we can find complete forgiveness and freedom in God.
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.'”
Peter asks Jesus about the limits of forgiveness, expecting a finite number. However, Jesus challenges this mindset by urging limitless forgiveness. This verse demonstrates the radical nature of forgiveness in the Christian life, reminding us that we are called to forgive without keeping score. It emphasizes the importance of cultivating a heart of forgiveness and grace towards others.
Matthew 5:23-24
“Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift.”
Jesus teaches that forgiveness and reconciliation should take precedence even over religious rituals. He emphasizes the importance of resolving conflicts and reconciling with others before approaching God in worship. This verse challenges us to prioritize forgiveness and reconciliation in our relationships, showing that true worship involves not only our external actions but also our internal attitudes.
James 5:16
“Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.”
James encourages believers to confess their sins to one another and lift each other up in prayer. This practice promotes accountability, vulnerability, and forgiveness within the Christian community. It highlights the role of community in the process of forgiveness and healing, underscoring the power of collective prayer for restoration and spiritual growth.
Psalm 103:12
“As far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us.”
This verse beautifully illustrates the vastness of God’s forgiveness. It describes His ability to completely remove our sins from us, putting an immeasurable distance between us and our transgressions. It is a reminder of God’s mercy and grace, assuring us that once we are forgiven, our sins no longer define us. It encourages us to accept and embrace the freedom that comes from God’s forgiveness.
Isaiah 1:18
“Come now, let us settle the matter. Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool.”
In this verse, God extends an invitation to come and reason with Him. He offers the promise of complete forgiveness, illustrating how He can turn our deeply ingrained sins into complete purity. This verse showcases God’s desire to restore and transform us, highlighting His redemptive power and love.
Romans 12:19
“Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord.”
Paul encourages believers to let go of the desire for revenge and entrust justice to God. God is just and can rightly administer judgment, ensuring that wrongs are made right. This verse reminds us that forgiveness involves releasing our need for vengeance and trusting in God’s sovereignty to handle matters of justice.
Proverbs 17:9
“Whoever would foster love covers over an offense, but whoever repeats the matter separates close friends.”
This proverb highlights the importance of showing love and grace by overlooking offenses. Choosing to cover over an offense allows relationships to remain intact and fosters unity. It reminds us to choose forgiveness over bitterness, recognizing the destructive nature of gossip or holding grudges.
Romans 14:10
“You, then, why do you judge your brother or sister? Or why do you treat them with contempt? For we will all stand before God’s judgment seat.”
Paul challenges our tendency to judge and look down upon others. He reminds us that it is not our place to condemn or be contemptuous towards our fellow believers. Rather, we should focus on our own accountability before God, understanding that we will all stand before His judgment seat. This verse encourages us to replace judgment with forgiveness and love, recognizing our shared need for God’s mercy.
Matthew 18:35
“This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother or sister from your heart.”
Jesus concludes a parable about forgiveness with this warning. It highlights the seriousness of harboring unforgiveness and showcases God’s expectation for His children to extend forgiveness to others. This verse underscores that forgiveness should not be mere lip service but a genuine transformation of the heart. It reminds us of the consequences of withholding forgiveness and the importance of cultivating a forgiving spirit.
1 Peter 3:9
“Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.”
Peter encourages believers to respond to evil or insults with blessings rather than seeking revenge. This verse highlights the Christlike attitude of forgiveness, reminding us that we are called to imitate Christ in our responses. It challenges us to break the cycle of harm and extend grace even when we are wronged, trusting in God’s promise of blessing.
Psalm 130:3-4
“If you, LORD, kept a record of sins, Lord, who could stand? But with you there is forgiveness, so that we can, with reverence, serve you.”
The psalmist recognizes God’s willingness to forgive and His ability to wipe away our sins. It highlights the contrast between God’s abundant forgiveness and our inability to stand before Him on our own merit. This verse prompts us to approach God with reverence and gratitude, acknowledging His benevolence and the gift of forgiveness He offers.
Luke 17:3-4
“So watch yourselves. ‘If your brother or sister sins against you, rebuke them; and if they repent, forgive them. Even if they sin against you seven times in a day and seven times come back to you saying, ‘I repent,’ you must forgive them.'”‘
Jesus teaches about the necessity of forgiveness, even when we are repeatedly wronged. He instructs His disciples to confront their brothers or sisters who sin against them and be ready to extend forgiveness when repentance is sought. This verse challenges us to show relentless forgiveness, reflecting the love and grace of our heavenly Father.
What Does the Bible Say About Unforgiveness?
In the Bible, there are several passages that emphasize the importance of forgiveness and the consequences of holding onto unforgiveness. These teachings are relevant to all of us, guiding us towards a more compassionate and spiritually fulfilling life.
1. Forgiveness is a commandment: The Bible teaches us that forgiveness is not optional but a commandment. In Matthew 6:14-15 (NIV), Jesus says, “For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.” This passage makes it clear that forgiving others is a crucial aspect of our relationship with God.
2. The parable of the unmerciful servant: In Matthew 18:21-35, Jesus tells a parable about a servant who owed a great debt to his master. When the servant couldn’t pay, the master forgave the debt entirely. However, when this servant later refused to forgive a smaller debt owed to him by another, he faced severe consequences. This parable illustrates that God’s forgiveness of our sins should inspire us to forgive others generously.
3. Love your enemies: In Luke 6:27-28 (NIV), Jesus instructs us, “But to you who are listening, I say: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.” This teaching challenges us to extend forgiveness and love even to those who have wronged us, demonstrating God’s unconditional love.
4. Bitterness and resentment: The Bible warns against harboring bitterness and resentment. In Hebrews 12:15 (NIV), it says, “See to it that no one falls short of the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many.” Holding onto unforgiveness can lead to destructive consequences not only in our own lives but in the lives of those around us.
5. The Lord’s Prayer: In the Lord’s Prayer (Matthew 6:9-13), Jesus teaches us to pray, “Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.” This prayer reinforces the idea that our forgiveness from God is connected to our willingness to forgive others.
In summary, the Bible is clear in its teachings about unforgiveness. It encourages us to forgive others as we have been forgiven by God, to love our enemies, and to avoid bitterness and resentment. Forgiveness is not only a moral imperative but also a path to spiritual growth and reconciliation. By practicing forgiveness, we reflect God’s love and mercy in our lives.