Equipped to Forgive

What is the importance of forgiveness?

Forgiveness is for our own growth and happiness. When we hold on to hurt, pain, resentment, and anger it harms us far more than it harms the offender. Having an unforgiving heart leads to bitterness, and a heart that is bitter cannot love as it ought to love. When we forgive others, we are not saying what they did was OK, but we are releasing the hurt to God and let go of its hold on us. Forgiveness frees up our hearts to love unconditionally.