Freedom Found in Forgiveness

 

If you’re one of my closest friends, the fact that I’ve wanted to start a podcast won’t shock you at all. You’ve probably already heard me dream out loud about it more times than you can count! But here’s the exciting news—it’s officially happening! A podcast is in the works, and I’ll be sharing more details soon. Just know this: it will be faith-filled and focused on what it looks like to walk in obedience to God as a wife, a mother, and a friend.

The other day, while browsing online (which we all know can lead to everything from recipes we’ll never make to Amazon carts we shouldn’t fill), I came across a story about Tim Allen. He recently shared that he forgave the man who killed his father. Wow. Can you imagine the freedom and peace that must have brought him? Forgiveness is a choice—and one that loosens the grip of bitterness and hurt.

Now, let’s be honest: forgiveness is not easy. It doesn’t mean saying what happened was okay or pretending it didn’t hurt. Forgiveness is not for them—it’s for you. Scripture makes it clear:

Matthew 6:14–15 (CSB): “For if you forgive others their offenses, your heavenly Father will forgive you as well. But if you don’t forgive others, your Father will not forgive your offenses.”

I’ve had to forgive people in my own life, and while it wasn’t always fun, it wasn’t as hard for me once I remembered what God calls us to do. When I think of Jesus on the cross, my excuses for holding onto anger suddenly shrink. He was beaten, pierced, mocked, and still prayed:

Luke 23:34: “Father, forgive them, because they do not know what they are doing.”

If Jesus could forgive in that moment, how can I justify clinging to grudges? Then I remember John 3:16—“For God loved the world in this way: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.” If Jesus could give His life for me, surely I can give forgiveness to others.

Forgiveness isn’t just about letting go—it’s about making room. When we forgive, we release the poison of anger and bitterness, and God fills that empty space with love, mercy, and grace. And friends, that right there? That’s spiritual growth.

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