How do I forgive someone who hurt me?
Forgiveness isn't easy or natural - but it is possible. Discover the freedom that comes from releasing bitterness.
20 Bible studies address this question
What the Bible Says
These Bible studies explore Scripture passages that speak to this question. Each study will give you insight and practical application.
Greatness, Sin, and Forgiveness in the Kingdom
Jesus teaches that the greatest in the Kingdom are those who humble themselves like children. He warns severely against causing others to stumble, teaches about church discipline, and tells the Parabl...
Jacob Meets Esau
Genesis 33 records the long-feared reunion between Jacob and Esau, which turns from terror to tearful reconciliation, followed by Jacob's settlement in Canaan at Succoth and Shechem.
Joseph Reveals Himself
Genesis 45 is the climactic moment of Joseph's story: unable to control himself any longer, Joseph reveals his identity to his brothers with tears, forgiveness, and a stunning theological interpretati...
The Deaths of Jacob and Joseph
Genesis 50 concludes the book with Jacob's burial in Canaan, the brothers' fear of Joseph's revenge, Joseph's profound statement of God's providence, and Joseph's death with faith in God's future deli...
The Trial, Crucifixion, and Burial of Jesus
Jesus stands before Pilate and Herod, innocent yet condemned. He carries His cross to Golgotha, is crucified between criminals, and forgives His executioners. The repentant thief receives paradise. Je...
Stephen's Speech and Martyrdom
Stephen delivers a sweeping speech tracing Israel's history of rejecting God's messengers. He accuses his hearers of resisting the Holy Spirit like their fathers. Enraged, they stone him. Stephen sees...
Forgiveness for the Offender
Paul explains his change of plans was to spare them pain. He urges them to forgive the one who caused grief, lest Satan gain advantage. Their reception of Titus brings relief and triumph.
A Brother Returns
Paul's personal letter appeals to Philemon to receive back his runaway slave Onesimus—now a Christian brother—demonstrating how the gospel transforms relationships and social dynamics through love...
Miriam and Aaron Challenge Moses
Numbers 12 records Miriam and Aaron's challenge to Moses' unique authority, God's decisive defense of His servant, and Miriam's punishment with leprosy, revealing the seriousness of speaking against G...
The Triumphal Entry and Temple Cleansing
Jesus enters Jerusalem as King, riding a colt while crowds shout Hosanna. He curses a fruitless fig tree, cleanses the temple of merchants, and teaches about faith and prayer when the disciples see th...
Faith, Forgiveness, and the Coming Kingdom
Jesus teaches about causing others to stumble, the duty to forgive repeatedly, and faith like a mustard seed. He heals ten lepers but only one returns to give thanks. He warns that the kingdom comes w...
David Spares Saul in the Cave
When Saul unknowingly enters the very cave where David is hiding, David refuses to kill him, only cutting his robe. Saul weeps at David's mercy and acknowledges David will be king.
Walking Worthy of Your Calling
Paul urges believers to live out their calling in unity, describes the gifts Christ gives to the church, and contrasts the old self with the new life in Christ.
David Spares Saul Again
Betrayed again by the Ziphites, David infiltrates Saul's camp at night but refuses to kill him, taking only his spear and water jug. Saul again confesses his wrong but David departs to Philistia.
David Learns of Saul's Death
An Amalekite brings news of Saul's death, claiming to have killed him. David mourns with a lament and executes the messenger for striking the LORD's anointed.
David's Return to Jerusalem
Joab rebukes David for excessive mourning. David returns to Jerusalem, dealing with Shimei's submission, Mephibosheth's vindication, Barzillai's reward, and rivalry between Judah and Israel.
Living Sacrifices
Paul turns from doctrine to practice. Present your bodies as living sacrifices. Be transformed by renewed minds. Use your gifts to serve the body. Love genuinely, overcome evil with good.
David's Flight and Absalom's Triumph
David encounters Ziba's deceit and Shimei's curses during his flight. Meanwhile, Absalom enters Jerusalem and publicly takes David's concubines, following Ahithophel's counsel.
The Last Supper: Washing Feet and a New Commandment
Jesus washes His disciples' feet, modeling servant leadership. He predicts His betrayal and sends Judas into the night. After Judas leaves, Jesus gives a new commandment: love one another as He has lo...
Put On the New Self
Since you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above. Put to death earthly vices and put on compassion, kindness, and above all, love. Let Christ's peace rule.
Still Have Questions?
The Bible has answers for every aspect of life. Keep exploring, or reach out to our pastoral team for personal guidance.