How to Forgive Someone Who Hurt You (Even If They Aren’t Sorry)
Forgiveness might be one of the hardest things God ever asks us to do. When someone deeply wounds you — with words, betrayal, or silence — it’s only natural to want justice or closure. But Jesus calls His followers to something higher. Forgiveness doesn’t mean the pain never happened; it means you’re releasing it to the only One who can truly heal your heart.
1. Forgiveness Is an Act of Obedience
Ephesians 4:32 (KJV)
And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.
Forgiveness isn’t based on how you feel — it’s based on what Christ has done.
He forgave us when we didn’t deserve it. That same grace allows us to forgive others, even when they don’t ask for it.
2. You Can Forgive Without Excusing the Wrong
Romans 12:19 (KJV)
Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.
Letting go doesn’t mean saying what happened was okay. It means trusting God to handle what you cannot. When you stop carrying the weight of anger, you make room for peace to return to your soul.
3. Forgiveness Sets You Free
Matthew 6:14 (KJV)
For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.
Unforgiveness chains you to your pain.
Forgiveness breaks those chains and allows healing to begin.
When you forgive, you’re not letting them off the hook — you’re letting yourself off the hook of bitterness.
4. Pray for the Person Who Hurt You
Luke 6:27–28 (KJV)
Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you, bless them that curse you, and pray for them which despitefully use you.
It’s not easy — but prayer changes things, especially your heart.
Ask God to work in their life and to strengthen yours in the process.
Forgiveness becomes possible when you invite Him into the wound.
Closing
Forgiving someone who isn’t sorry doesn’t make you weak — it makes you free. God sees your pain, and He promises to make beauty from ashes.
Start by giving Him the hurt, one prayer at a time. You don’t have to feel ready to forgive — you just have to be willing to let Him help you do it.
