I believe we should forgive those who wrong us because God chose to forgive us. We were set free, pardoned from sin through God. Romans 5:8 says, “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this. While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” While we were dirty Jesus made the ultimate sacrifice and made us clean, setting us free.

In Colossians 3:13 God says, “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” God sent his son to Earth to be crucified to cleanse us from all sin. God loves us so much, He forgives us for our worst mistakes.There is a saying, “Love like Jesus.” However, if we want to love like Jesus we have to live like Jesus. Forgive those who wrong us, help the sick or hurt, and invite everyone to God’s kingdom. 

Pastor Jayson French stated, “We all like the idea of forgiveness until it’s time to forgive. Forgiveness is not forgetting or letting go, forgiveness means going head first, not faking it.” 

Matthew 18:21-22 says, “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.” God forgives us endlessly and we should forgive those who hurt us as he does. Jesus paid our debt with his body, so we should show mercy as he does for us.

French stated, “Jesus will continue to forgive, so face your heart. Unresolved issues will wreck you not only mentally but also physically. Ephesians 4: 31-32 says ‘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.’ Forgiveness is not an option but a requirement.” 

It can be hard when you don’t know where to start with forgiving someone. However understanding and acknowledging that you have to forgive can often be the first step. Forgiveness is not easy, you have to be able to let go of grudges, not holding onto the hurt or anger. 

White Oak Christian Church’s Ross Campus Lead Pastor Chris Emmons stated, “Be intentional about letting the anger go and be real with yourself. God forgives and forgets and as humans we don’t do that.” 

God fixes us when we feel broken, worthless, used, and discarded. He loves every single person in the universe, making us known and loved. To live like Jesus, you have to take risks and leave your comfort zone. 

Pastor Mark Christian stated, “Satan gets you when you are tired, angry, hurt, and upset. God provides you with the opportunity to find your identity in Him by never leaving your side. Why so downcast, put your trust in God.”

As teenagers and people in general we should love our neighbor as ourselves and to do that we also have to forgive ourselves before we can forgive others. You can start by praying. Ask God for forgiveness and guidance on how to not only forgive yourself but also others. You can also find guidance in the bible. God’s words and the examples of his disciples will lead you in the right direction. You can also check out a prayer or youth group and there are many churches that hold Sunday services in the Ross area.