Why is forgiveness so hard? Because when someone hurts us, holding onto that pain can feel like protection, like control. If we don't forgive them, then we feel like we have something over them, which makes them subject to us.

But the truth is that unforgiveness doesn't protect us. It chains us to the very thing that wounded us. Let's be clear: Forgiveness isn't saying that the offense didn't matter. Instead, when we forgive, we're saying that we choose to let go of the offense so we can heal.

So, where do we begin? Here are a few steps to take to forgive:

Be honest about the pain.

Don't lie to yourself or others. If you're hurting, say so. Most importantly, invite God into the wound and allow Him to heal you.

Choose to forgive even if you don't feel like it yet.

If forgiveness were dependent on our emotions, it would almost always be impossible to forgive because we would never feel like doing so. Regardless of how you feel, choose to forgive those who hurt you. They don't even have to know it! Between you and the Lord, choose to say, "I forgive them."

Pray for the offender.

Scripture tells us to pray for our enemies and those who persecute us. When someone has hurt you, respond by praying for them. Even if it's just, "Lord, help me forgive them," let your first response be prayer.

Let go of the need for revenge.

Contrary to popular belief in today's culture, it's not your responsibility to avenge yourself. Trust that God will get justice. Vengeance is His.

You don't have to pursue forgiveness alone. God is with you, and our team is available to walk with you through the forgiveness process. Forgiveness takes time, but it leads to peace!