Learn to Forgive (and Maybe Forget) With These 17 Bible Verses

When someone does something to upset us, it can be hard to let that go and move on. But harboring frustration or ill will towards someone else is actually just a punishment for ourselves. Luckily, there are Bible verses about forgiveness to help you through that very situation. A majority of them are about how we must forgive, lest we not be forgiven. But, we must also forgive, because God forgives us no matter our transgressions.

Forgiveness doesn't necessarily mean that the person is not guilty of whatever they did to upset us. Forgiveness doesn't mean forgetting. Rather, forgiveness means letting go of the pain the incident is causing us. We forgive to give ourselves peace of mind, and in hopes that one day someone will return the favor if we ever offend them.

So whether a family member starts an argument, a child throws a fit, or a friend isn't there during a time of need, the Bible helps us to see the importance of forgiveness for transgressions small and large. Rely on these passages whenever you need a reminder that holding a grudge doesn't serve anyone, least of all ourselves.