Have you ever carried the heavy weight of hurt, struggled to forgive someone who deeply hurt you, or wondered if God has truly forgiven you after your past mistakes, wondering if forgiveness is even possible? As a believer, I’ve been there, clinging to resentment after a deep betrayal, feeling like my heart was locked in chains.
Forgiveness is one of the most powerful, yet challenging, truths in the Christian faith. Many believers love God deeply, yet silently carry guilt, shame, bitterness, or unresolved pain. That weight can affect our prayers, peace, and spiritual growth.
This faith-filled guide on Forgiveness and Bible verses about forgiveness will gently walk you through what Scripture truly says about forgiveness, God’s forgiveness toward us and our responsibility to forgive others. These verses are not meant to condemn, but to heal, restore, and lead you into freedom through Christ.
There was a season in my life when I was deeply hurt and betrayed by people who were very close to me, people I loved and trusted. The pain cut deeply because I never expected such actions from them. What hurt even more was not just what they did, but how long the pain stayed with me.
For months… then years, that hurt lingered.
It quietly stole my joy and my peace.
Bitterness began to grow in my heart without me even realising it.
Each time I heard sermons about forgiveness in church, it felt personal — as if God was speaking directly to me. I would pray sincerely, asking God to help me forgive. Yet, the pain didn’t seem to go away. At the same time, I noticed something troubling: my life felt stuck. I wasn’t progressing the way I hoped, while the very people who hurt me seemed to be moving forward, thriving, and doing well.
One day, while listening to a preacher on YouTube, everything changed.
He taught on forgiveness in a way that touched every hidden wound I had been holding onto. He said something that stopped me in my tracks:
“Unforgiveness delays your promotion. The people who hurt and betrayed you were often meant to be part of your promotion in life, but you cannot be promoted while still holding onto the pain.”
He referenced powerful biblical examples, Joseph and his brothers, Joseph and Potiphar’s wife, and even Jesus and Judas. Each story revealed the same truth: betrayal did not stop God’s plan, but unforgiveness could delay the fullness of it.
Then he read Matthew 6:14–15, and the words pierced my heart:
“For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.”
He explained that God’s forgiveness toward us is closely tied to our willingness to forgive others. Then he concluded with a statement I could no longer ignore:
“Forgiveness is not a choice for believers. It is a command.”
That moment marked a turning point in my life.
Forgiveness was not easy. It was one of the hardest things God ever asked me to do. But I learned something powerful: forgiveness is not done in human strength; it is done through the help of the Holy Spirit and obedience to God’s Word.
When I finally chose to forgive, something shifted.
The bitterness began to lose its grip.
Peace slowly returned.
Healing started where pain once lived.
Forgiveness didn’t excuse what happened, but it freed my heart. And in that freedom, God began to open doors I didn’t even know were closed.
If you are reading this and struggling to forgive someone who deeply hurt you, know this:
Forgiveness is not about them; it is about your healing, your freedom, and your walk with God.
God never commands what He won’t empower.
If you’re seeking peace, restoration, and spiritual growth, or if you’re seeking biblical encouragement, these Bible verses about forgiveness can transform your heart. Let’s explore what the Bible says about forgiveness together, drawing from both the Old and New Testaments, to help you embrace God’s mercy and extend it to others.
WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY ABOUT FORGIVENESS?
Forgiveness in the Bible is not ignoring pain or pretending hurt never happened.
Biblical forgiveness is releasing the offense to God and trusting Him with justice, healing, and restoration.
In simple terms:
Forgiveness means letting go of resentment and choosing obedience, even when it’s hard — just as God forgave us through Christ.
The Bible clearly teaches that:
- God is merciful and ready to forgive
- Forgiveness is closely tied to repentance
- Believers are commanded to forgive others
- Unforgiveness blocks spiritual growth
- Forgiveness releases healing and freedom
Let’s explore these truths directly from Scripture.
OLD TESTAMENT BIBLE VERSES ABOUT FORGIVENESS: GOD’S NATURE, FORGIVING & MERCIFUL
God Is Merciful and Ready to Forgive
1. Exodus 34:6–7 (NIV)
“The Lord, the Lord, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness, maintaining love to thousands, and forgiving wickedness, rebellion and sin.”
This verse reveals God’s heart. Forgiveness is not something God struggles to give; it flows from who He is. Even when we fail, His mercy remains available.
2. Numbers 14:18–20 (NLT)
“The Lord is slow to anger and filled with unfailing love, forgiving every kind of sin and rebellion… Then the Lord said, ‘I will pardon them as you have requested.’”
God responds to repentance with mercy. He does not delight in punishment but in restoration.
3. Nehemiah 9:17 (ESV)
“But you are a God ready to forgive, gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.”
Even after repeated rebellion, God remained “ready to forgive.” This verse reminds believers that God never grows tired of extending mercy.
4. Psalm 86:5 (NKJV)
“For You, Lord, are good, and ready to forgive, and abundant in mercy to all those who call upon You.”
Forgiveness is available to all who call on Him. No sin is too great when repentance is genuine.
5. Psalm 103:2–4, 8–12 (NLT)
“He forgives all my sins and heals all my diseases… He has removed our sins as far from us as the east is from the west.”
God does not partially forgive; He completely removes sin. This truth brings freedom from guilt and shame.
6. Psalm 130:3–4 (NIV)
“If you, Lord, kept a record of sins, Lord, who could stand? But with you there is forgiveness.”
Forgiveness is the reason we can approach God with confidence, not fear.
7. Isaiah 43:25 (MSG)
“I wipe the slate clean for my own sake and forget your sins.”
God chooses to forget forgiven sins. This means believers are not defined by their past.
8. Isaiah 55:6–7 (NIV)
“Let the wicked forsake their ways… for he will freely pardon.”
God’s forgiveness is generous and open to anyone willing to turn back to Him.
9. Micah 7:18–19 (NLT)
“He delights in showing unfailing love… You will trample our sins under your feet.”
Forgiveness is not forced for God; He delights in mercy.
10. Daniel 9:9 (ESV)
“To the Lord our God belong mercy and forgiveness.”
Mercy and forgiveness are not earned; they belong to God’s nature.
BIBLE VERSES ABOUT FORGIVENESS THROUGH REPENTANCE (OLD TESTAMENT)
Repentance Opens the Door to Mercy
11. Leviticus 4:20 (NIV)
“In this way the priest will make atonement for them, and they will be forgiven.”
Forgiveness in the Old Testament required sacrifice, pointing ahead to Jesus, the ultimate sacrifice.
12. Leviticus 5:10 (NIV)
“In this way the priest will make atonement for them for the sin they have committed, and they will be forgiven.”
Forgiveness in the Old Testament always required atonement. These points are directed to Jesus, who became our final atonement.
13. Leviticus 5:13 (NLT)
“The priest will purify them, and they will be forgiven.”
Forgiveness cleanses both spiritually and relationally. God’s desire has always been purity, not punishment.
14. Leviticus 5:16 (NIV)
“They must make restitution… and the priest will make atonement for them, and they will be forgiven.”
True repentance includes responsibility. Forgiveness does not remove accountability — it restores the relationship.
15. Leviticus 5:18 (ESV)
“The priest shall make atonement for him… and he shall be forgiven.”
This repeated promise shows God’s consistent mercy, even under the law.
16. 2 Chronicles 7:14 (NKJV)
“If My people… humble themselves, pray… then I will hear from heaven, forgive their sin, and heal their land.”
Forgiveness follows humility and repentance, leading to healing.
17. Proverbs 28:13 (NLT)
“People who conceal their sins will not prosper, but if they confess and turn from them, they will receive mercy.”
Confession brings freedom. Hiding sin keeps us bound, but repentance restores us.
18. Isaiah 1:18 (NIV)
“Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow.”
God does not stain forgiven believers with their past; He cleanses completely.
19. Jeremiah 31:34 (NIV)
“For I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more.”
God’s forgiveness erases spiritual records, not just feelings.
20. Ezekiel 18:21–23 (NLT)
“If wicked people turn away from all their sins… they will surely live.”
God desires repentance, not punishment. His goal is life and restoration.
BIBLE VERSES ABOUT FORGIVENESS BETWEEN PEOPLE & JESUS’ TEACHINGS
HUMAN FORGIVENESS TOWARD OTHERS (OLD TESTAMENT)
Forgiving Others Is a Reflection of God’s Love
The Bible does not only talk about God forgiving us, but it also teaches us how to forgive people who hurt us. Forgiveness among humans has always been part of God’s design for peaceful relationships and spiritual maturity.
21. Genesis 50:15–21 (NIV)
“You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.”
Joseph had every reason to seek revenge, yet he chose forgiveness. This shows that forgiveness does not deny pain; it trusts God’s purpose beyond it.
22. Proverbs 17:9 (NLT)
“Love prospers when a fault is forgiven, but dwelling on it separates close friends.”
Holding onto offences damages relationships. Forgiveness protects unity and love.
23. Proverbs 19:11 (ESV)
“Good sense makes one slow to anger, and it is his glory to overlook an offense.”
Forgiveness is not weakness; it is spiritual maturity and strength.
24. Ecclesiastes 7:21–22 (NIV)
“Do not pay attention to every word people say… for you know that you yourself have often cursed others.”
We all need grace. Remembering our own flaws makes forgiving others easier.
25. Zechariah 7:9–10 (NLT)
“Be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God forgave you.”
God links forgiveness with compassion. A forgiving heart reflects His character.
WARNINGS AGAINST UNFORGIVENESS (OLD TESTAMENT BIBLE VERSES ABOUT UNFORGIVENESS)
Unforgiveness Destroys Peace and Blocks Blessing
The Bible clearly warns that bitterness and revenge bring harm, not healing.
26. Proverbs 10:12 (NIV)
“Hatred stirs up conflict, but love covers over all wrongs.”
Unforgiveness keeps wounds open. Love and forgiveness bring peace.
27. Proverbs 20:22 (NLT)
“Don’t say, ‘I will get even.’ Wait for the Lord to handle the matter.”
God is the true judge. Forgiveness means trusting Him with justice.
28. Proverbs 24:29 (NIV)
“Do not say, ‘I’ll do to them as they have done to me.’”
Forgiveness means leaving revenge to God. Holding grudges only prolongs pain, but releasing it brings peace.
29. Ecclesiastes 7:21–22 (NIV)
“Do not pay attention to every word people say… for you know that you yourself have often cursed others.”
We all fall short, so it’s wise to overlook offenses. Forgiveness protects your heart from bitterness and judgment.
30. Proverbs 24:29 (MSG)
“Don’t say, ‘I’ll do to him what he did to me.’”
Revenge traps the heart. Forgiveness sets it free.
31. Job 42:10 (NIV)
“After Job had prayed for his friends, the Lord restored his fortunes.”
Job’s breakthrough came after forgiveness. Healing often follows obedience.
NEW TESTAMENT BIBLE VERSES ABOUT FORGIVENESS: JESUS’ TEACHINGS ON FORGIVENESS
Jesus Made Forgiveness Central to the Christian Life
Forgiveness is not optional in Christianity. Jesus taught it clearly, lived it boldly, and demonstrated it on the cross.
32. Matthew 5:7 (NIV)
“Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.”
Mercy flows both ways. Forgiving others positions us to receive grace.
33. Matthew 6:12–15 (NIV)
“Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.”
Jesus directly connects God’s forgiveness with our willingness to forgive others.
34. Matthew 9:2–6 (NLT)
“Jesus said to the paralyzed man, ‘Be encouraged! Your sins are forgiven.’”
Jesus has authority to forgive sins, a truth that brings hope and healing.
35. Matthew 18:21–35 (NIV)
The Parable of the Unforgiving Servant
“Shouldn’t you have had mercy on your fellow servant just as I had on you?”
This parable teaches that forgiven people must forgive others. Refusing to forgive contradicts the grace received.
36. Mark 11:25–26 (NKJV)
“When you stand praying, forgive… so that your Father may forgive you.”
Unforgiveness can block prayers. Forgiveness keeps our spiritual connection clear.
37. Luke 6:37 (NIV)
“Forgive, and you will be forgiven.”
Forgiveness releases freedom for both giver and receiver.
38. Luke 7:47–50 (NLT)
“A person who is forgiven little shows only little love.”
The more we understand God’s forgiveness, the more freely we forgive others.
39. Luke 11:4 (NIV)
“Forgive us our sins, for we also forgive everyone who sins against us.”
Forgiveness is meant to be a daily lifestyle, not a one-time act.
40. Luke 17:3–4 (ESV)
“If your brother sins against you seven times… forgive him.”
Forgiveness is repetitive because love is patient.
41. Luke 23:34 (NIV)
“Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.”
Jesus forgave even while suffering. This sets the highest example for believers.
BIBLE VERSES ABOUT FORGIVENESS THROUGH CHRIST (NEW TESTAMENT)
Forgiveness Is Fully Accomplished Through Jesus
In the New Testament, forgiveness is no longer through sacrifices; it is through Christ alone.
42. Acts 2:38 (NIV)
“Repent and be baptised… for the forgiveness of your sins.”
Forgiveness begins with repentance and faith in Jesus.
43. Acts 5:31 (NIV)
“Jesus gives repentance and forgiveness of sins.”
Forgiveness is a gift, not something we earn.
44. Acts 10:43 (NLT)
“Everyone who believes in Him receives forgiveness through His name.”
Faith in Jesus unlocks forgiveness for all people.
45. Romans 4:7–8 (ESV)
“Blessed are those whose lawless deeds are forgiven.”
Forgiveness brings peace and joy to the believer’s heart.
46. Romans 5:8–9 (NIV)
“While we were still sinners, Christ died for us… we shall be saved from God’s wrath through Him.”
Reflection:
God forgave us before we deserved it. Forgiveness begins with grace, not perfection.
47. Romans 5:10–11 (NLT)
“We were restored to friendship with God… we now rejoice in our wonderful new relationship with God.”
Forgiveness restores a relationship, not just status.
48. Acts 13:38–39 (NIV)
“Through Jesus the forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you.”
Forgiveness is not found in effort, but in Christ alone.
49. Hebrews 9:22 (ESV)
“Without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness of sins.”
This verse explains why Jesus’ sacrifice was necessary and final.
50. Romans 8:1 (NIV)
“There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”
Forgiven believers are not condemned; they are free.
51. Ephesians 1:7 (NIV)
“In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins.”
Reflection:
Jesus paid fully for forgiveness through His sacrifice.
52. Colossians 1:13–14 (NLT)
“He has rescued us… and forgiven all our sins.”
Forgiveness is part of our salvation story.
53. Hebrews 8:12 (NIV)
“I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more.”
God’s forgiveness is complete and permanent.
54. 1 John 1:7–9 (NIV)
“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us.”
Confession restores fellowship with God.
55. 1 John 2:12 (NIV)
“Your sins have been forgiven on account of His name.”
Forgiveness is anchored in Christ, not our performance.
COMMANDS, WARNINGS, HEALING & FREEDOM THROUGH FORGIVENESS
COMMANDS TO FORGIVE OTHERS (New Testament Bible Verses About Forgiveness as a Command)
Forgiveness Is Not Optional for Believers But A Command
Jesus and the apostles taught forgiveness as a command, not a suggestion. It is part of Christian obedience and spiritual maturity.
56. Matthew 18:15–17 (NIV)
“If your brother or sister sins, go and point out their fault… If they listen to you, you have won them over.”
Forgiveness seeks restoration, not punishment. God values reconciliation among believers.
57. Romans 12:17–21 (NLT)
“Never pay back evil with more evil… Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone.”
Forgiveness leaves room for God’s justice and keeps our hearts free from bitterness.
58. 2 Corinthians 2:7–11 (NIV)
“You ought to forgive and comfort him, so that he will not be overwhelmed by excessive sorrow.”
Withholding forgiveness can damage others spiritually. Forgiveness heals both sides.
59. Ephesians 4:31–32 (NIV)
“Get rid of all bitterness… forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”
We forgive not because people deserve it, but because Christ forgave us.
60. Colossians 3:12–13 (NLT)
“Make allowance for each other’s faults… Remember, the Lord forgave you.”
Forgiveness flows from gratitude for God’s mercy.
61. 1 Thessalonians 5:15 (NIV)
“Always strive to do what is good for each other.”
Forgiveness chooses goodness over revenge.
62. James 5:16 (NIV)
“Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed.”
Forgiveness and healing often walk together.
63. 1 Peter 3:8–9 (NIV)
“Do not repay evil with evil… repay with blessing.”
Forgiveness reflects Christ’s heart to the world.
WARNINGS ABOUT UNFORGIVENESS (NEW TESTAMENT SCRIPTURES ABOUT UNFORGIVENESS)
Unforgiveness Blocks Spiritual Growth
The Bible speaks strongly about unforgiveness because of the damage it causes to the heart, prayers, and spiritual life.
64. Matthew 6:14–15 (NIV)
“If you do not forgive others… your Father will not forgive your sins.”
Unforgiveness affects our relationship with God.
65. Matthew 18:34–35 (NIV)
“This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive.”
Grace received must become grace released.
66. Hebrews 12:14–15 (NIV)
“See to it that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble.”
Bitterness poisons the soul and spreads harm.
67. James 2:13 (NIV)
“Judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful.”
Mercy protects believers from spiritual hardness.
68. 1 John 2:9–11 (NIV)
“Anyone who hates a brother or sister is still in the darkness.”
Unforgiveness blinds spiritual vision.
69. 1 John 3:15 (ESV)
“Everyone who hates his brother is a murderer.”
God takes unforgiveness seriously because it destroys love.
70. 1 John 4:20 (NLT)
“If someone says, ‘I love God,’ but hates a fellow believer, that person is a liar.”
Love for God must show up in forgiveness toward people.
BENEFITS & IMPORTANCE OF FORGIVENESS
Why Forgiveness Is Essential for Every Believer
Forgiveness is not just obedience; it brings powerful benefits.
Spiritual Benefits
- Restored relationship with God
- Clear conscience
- Freedom in prayer
- Growth in spiritual maturity
Emotional Benefits
- Release from bitterness and anger
- Inner peace and joy
- Emotional healing
Physical & Mental Benefits
- Reduced stress
- Improved mental clarity
- Freedom from emotional heaviness
Kingdom Impact
- Reflects Christ’s character
- Draws others to faith
- Builds healthy Christian community
WHY THESE BIBLE VERSES ABOUT FORGIVENESS MATTER
These Bible verses about forgiveness remind believers that:
- God forgives freely and completely
- Forgiveness is tied to repentance
- Forgiveness is commanded by Jesus
- Unforgiveness blocks prayer and peace
- Forgiveness releases healing and freedom
These verses are perfect to:
- Save for prayer time
- Meditate on during healing seasons
- Share with someone struggling
- Use in devotionals or Bible study
Forgiveness is where pain meets grace.
It is where wounds surrender to God’s healing power.
When we forgive, we choose freedom over bondage, and faith over fear.
FAQs ABOUT FORGIVENESS AND UNFORGIVENESS
Forgiveness means releasing someone from spiritual debt and refusing to hold bitterness. It does not excuse sin but hands justice to God.
Not always. Forgiveness is internal obedience. Reconciliation depends on safety, repentance, and wisdom.
Forgiveness is a decision, not a feeling. Feelings often follow obedience.
Yes. When repentance is genuine, God’s mercy remains available (1 John 1:9).
Unforgiveness blocks prayer, invites bitterness, and hinders spiritual growth.
FINAL THOUGHTS ON BIBLE VERSES ABOUT FORGIVENESS
Forgiveness is not easy, but it is powerful.
It restores hearts, heals wounds, and reflects Jesus to the world.
Say these:
I choose forgiveness today.
I release every offence to God.
I walk in freedom, peace, and healing through Christ.
Amen.
If this blessed you, you may also enjoy reading:
“How to Study the Bible: Easy Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners” on Mercy to Faith, a perfect companion to growing deeper in prayer, or Encouraging Bible Verses About Repentance: to discover how forgiveness and repentance go hand in hand.
And if you are looking for daily Scripture and real-life faith stories from people who have walked through pain, illness, and recovery, the YouVersion Bible App is a helpful free resource with devotionals and testimonies.
Leave a comment with your testimony or Send it to someone who needs encouragement
God’s forgiveness is enough.
And through Him, so is yours.
