Forgiveness is not only important for Christians, but it’s also important for atheists. As Christians, we are taught early in life the importance of letting go.

If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. – John 1:9

Because Jesus teaches forgiveness openly and often, we are told to embrace this as His children. Yet, the act of forgiving someone is not always that easy. There are many scriptures in the Bible about forgiveness. Not only that, but forgiveness can also connect us to similar emotions that are important for Christians. For example, understanding, empathy, and compassion.

In this article, we will cover what the Bible tells us about forgiveness. Plus, the physical and mental benefits the act of forgiving can have.

What the Bible Say About Forgiveness

Here are two prominent verses that demonstrate what the Bible teaches us why forgiveness is important for Christians:

“For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your Heavenly Father will also forgive you” (Matthew 6:14).

“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you” (Ephesians 4:32).

These verses explain how we should be as understand of others as Jesus is of us.

Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. (Luke 6:37)

As Christ often demonstrated to us during His ministry, we should treat others as we wish to be treated.

Why Forgiveness Is Important For The Christian Soul

Forgiveness increases our sense of growth and happiness. So, it does more than just help heal from the wrongs that were done to us. But when you continue to focus on negative emotions, it keeps you rooted in pain.

Thus, keeping resentment and pain in our hearts will allow it to continue to harm us. But guess what? It doesn’t bother or hurt the person who has hurt us. For this reason, it is not healthy to allow negativity to continue to dwell in our minds and hearts. It will only lead to hatred and bitterness, which is not what God wants for us.

In short, letting go of negative emotions does two things for us. One, our souls can prosper. And two, we embrace everything Jesus has given to us in this life to enjoy.

Forgiveness Is Good For The Body and Brain

Forgiving someone does not mean that you forget the harm that person has caused you. Nor does it mean you have to reconcile with the person who wronged you. Instead, the act of forgiving is about you gaining a sense of peach and wellness within yourself.

Practicing true forgiveness is good for your mental health. And this includes your mind, heart, and soul. In fact, science has also shown that forgiveness is healthy for our bodies and brains as well.

Admittedly, it’s not easy to forgive something that previously happened and move forward. However, forgiveness does more than just give us a powerful feeling of inner freedom. Increased mental health, a stronger immune system, and improved heart health are positives of forgiveness on the body.

How To Forgive

The Bible teaches us: “Love prospers when a fault is forgiven, but dwelling on it separates close friends” (Proverbs 17:9).

Whether we are forgiving a family member, or anyone else in our lives, truly forgiving can be difficult. But the spiritual, physical, and mental benefits make the challenges of forgiving worth it.

You should know that forgiveness is a process. First, you must make the decision to let go of the pain that came from being hurt. Then, acknowledge the pain that accompanies the act of being wronged.

After you connect with that pain, you can learn how it is hurting you. And what it is that you need to begin healing.

Practicing Forgiveness As Christians

Should we forgive someone if the person who has wronged us hasn’t apologized or asked for our forgiveness? Yes. This is when we, as Christians, need to tan the higher road. We should take Christ’s example and choose not to harbor negative feelings and resentment.

Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. (Colossians 3:13)

Without the love and mercy of Jesus, we would not be able to ask for the forgiveness of our own sins. His gift of forgiveness is what allows us to spend eternal life with Him. Not only will our ability to forgive help us live in His image, but it also aids us in living more productive and healthy lifestyles.