The Power of Forgiveness: When Forgiveness Feels Unfair - Living Free - August 5
The Power of Forgiveness: When Forgiveness Feels Unfair
Living Free Every Day®
A ministry of LivingFree.org
Scripture
“For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” Romans 3:23 (NIV)
Thoughts for the Day
“That's not fair!” From the time we could speak, we’ve cried it. In our hearts, we crave justice. When we’re wronged, we want the scales balanced—quickly and clearly. Forgiveness, especially in painful situations, can feel like letting someone “off the hook.”
But here’s the truth: forgiveness isn’t about fairness—it’s about freedom.
God imprinted a desire for justice on our souls, but sin broke the world’s ability to live up to it. And we forget: we’ve all added to that brokenness. While we want others to pay for their wrongs, we hope God gives us grace for ours.
Forgiveness is not easy. It costs. And sometimes, it feels unjust. Yet God asks us to forgive not because it’s fair, but because He did it first. He forgave us when we least deserved it.
Consider This . . .
Have you ever found yourself angry at the idea of forgiving someone who never apologized? Do you wonder why you should let go while they move on without consequence?
What if forgiveness isn’t for them—it’s for you?
Holding onto resentment keeps us tethered to pain. Forgiveness doesn’t excuse injustice—it releases us from its grip. And when we forgive, we reflect the very heart of God, who forgave us through the unfair suffering of His Son.
Jesus was betrayed, falsely accused, beaten, mocked, and crucified—and He still forgave. If He could forgive from the cross, surely He can help us forgive from our wounded places.
Prayer
Father, it’s hard to forgive when it feels unfair. I want justice. I want things made right. But I also want freedom, peace, and healing. Help me lay down my need to even the score. Help me remember that forgiveness isn’t about fairness—it’s about following You. Teach me to forgive as You forgave me. In Jesus’ name, Amen...
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