Devotional
There’s a powerful truth about forgiveness that many people miss: it liberates the forgiver more than the forgiven. When we hold onto unforgiveness, we become prisoners of our own pain. The offense lodges within us, affecting our peace, our relationships, and our spiritual health. Jesus told a parable about a king who forgave a massive debt, only to have that same servant refuse to forgive a much smaller debt owed to him. The king’s response was swift and severe – the unforgiving servant was thrown into prison until he could pay back everything he owed. The lesson is clear: when we refuse to forgive, we imprison ourselves. We become tormented by bitterness, resentment, and anger. We replay the offense over and over, giving it power over our thoughts and emotions. Meanwhile, the person who hurt us often moves on with their life, unaware of the prison we’ve built for ourselves. But when we choose to forgive – to truly let go – we experience freedom. We’re no longer controlled by the offense or defined by our pain. We can move forward with our lives, trusting that God will handle justice in His time and His way. This freedom doesn’t come automatically or easily. It requires us to absorb the cost of the offense ourselves, just as Jesus absorbed the cost of our sins on the cross. It means choosing to release our right to revenge, our demand for an apology, our need for the other person to understand how much they hurt us. Letting go is scary because it feels like we’re giving up control. But in reality, we’re acknowledging that we never had control in the first place. We’re placing the situation in God’s hands, trusting Him to work all things together for good. You will never be free until you forgive. That’s not a threat – it’s a promise. On the other side of forgiveness lies the freedom you’ve been longing for.
Bible Verse
‘In anger his master handed him over to the jailers to be tortured, until he should pay back all he owed. This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother or sister from your heart.’ – Matthew 18:34-35
Reflection Question
What areas of your life feel imprisoned by unforgiveness, and what would freedom look like if you chose to let go?
Quote
“You will never be free until you forgive. That’s it.” -Pastor Jerry Madden
Prayer
Lord, I want to be free from the prison of unforgiveness. Help me to let go of the offenses I’ve been holding onto. Give me the courage to absorb the cost myself and trust You with justice. I choose freedom over bitterness. Amen.