Are You Finding It Hard To Forgive? Read This.

What is forgiveness? Generally, forgiveness is a decision to let go of resentment and thoughts of revenge. The act that hurt or offended you might always remain a part of your life, but forgiveness can lessen its grip on you and help you focus on other, more positive parts of your life. Forgiveness can even lead to feelings of understanding, empathy and compassion for the one who hurt you. Forgiveness doesn't mean that you deny the other person's responsibility for hurting you, and it doesn't minimize or justify the wrong. You can forgive the person without excusing the act. Forgiveness brings a kind of peace that helps you go on with life. What are the benefits of forgiving someone? Letting go of grudges and bitterness can make way for happiness, health and peace. Forgiveness can lead to: Healthier relationships Greater spiritual and psychological well-being Less anxiety, stress and hostility Lower blood pressure Fewer symptoms of depression Stronger immune system Improved heart health Higher self-esteem.  Lent is arguably the time when we weigh up the significance of our sin and forgiveness more than any other. As we Good Friday draws ever-closer, thoughts about sin and the forgiveness of sins are both paramount in the minds of Christians around the world. An understanding of the relationship between these two acts is vital if we are to truly comprehend Jesus's death on the cross and the meaning of his sacrifice. Just as God forgives us, so we are called to forgive others. It can be hard to forgive someone, especially if we've been really hurt by their actions or words but inspirational passages on forgiveness are a feature throughout the Bible. Meditating on these when we're called to accept an apology and genuinely forgive will help to remind us why forgiveness is such a significant part of our faith and encourage us to extend forgiveness to those who require it. The following verses provide an insight to how forgiveness in referred to in Scripture. Matthew 26:28 - This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. Luke 6:37 - Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. John 20:23 - If you forgive anyone's sins, their sins are forgiven; if you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven. Acts 10:43 - All the prophets testify about him that everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name. Ephesians 1:7 - In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace. Ephesians 4:32 - Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.