Learning to Forgive Deeply

IWM Devotion: Learning to Forgive Deeply
Key scripture: Colossians 3:13, "Be even-tempered, content with second place, quick to forgive an offense. Forgive as quickly and completely as the Master forgave you". (MSG)

Listen 

Watch

Or Read Full Devotion Below:

Word For Today

Forgiveness is one thing we say easily, but when it comes to actually doing it, that’s where the real work is. Not just surface “I’ve forgiven you”, but deep, real forgiveness. Self-control helps you pause to hold back anger, bitterness, or the urge to react. Forgiveness is what you choose in that pause to release the offense and respond in a way that honors God. Without self-control, it’s hard to forgive, because emotions can take over. And without forgiveness, even if you control your actions outwardly, your heart can still carry resentment.

For me, while I was growing up, I had just one particular thing. When people hurt me, I used to take it personal, not even angry with the person o, but with myself. I’ll be thinking, “why did I allow this?” But I can tell you that’s not healthy. And I was like… okay, I really need to take this seriously and let it go. I had to start reading books on it, getting all the help I need while I prayed and trust God. That was when I stumbled on Stormie Omartian books. And I kept learning.

Now people can be so extra, but today we are not just talking about forgiveness, we’re talking about inner peace, deep forgiveness. That kind you don’t just say with your mouth, but your heart has truly let go and healed from the pain.

Let’s even back it up with scripture. The Bible says in Ephesians 4:31–32 that we should let go of bitterness, anger, and malice, and be kind, forgiving one another, just as God forgave us. Now, learning to forgive is not something we do on our own. No, we need God. And this is what God has taught me, you need to surrender it to Him. Yes, let Him heal you deeply. You must be willing.

Because it’s what we as believers should and must learn to do. The scripture even says in Matthew 18:21–22 that we should forgive, not just once or twice, but over and over again. So, if you want to grow, have joy, have peace, and even just feel light and free, if you want the Holy Spirit to have a resting place in you, then you must understand this, don’t take things too hard.

The truth is, people will step on you. In church, at home, at work, it will happen. But you must have self-control. And thank God, He has done His work in me. I was listening to a well respected woman of God, Rev. Christy Bature, and she shared something powerful about self-control. She pointed to Jesus as the perfect example, and it really made me reflect.

I began to think about the one who betrayed Jesus, and it struck me deeply. How many of us, if we knew someone would hurt us or had something against us, would still treat them with love and sincerity? Honestly, it’s not easy, it takes the grace of God.

Jesus knew, yet He didn’t withdraw or treat that person differently. He walked with all His disciples in the same love and consistency. That kind of self-control and maturity is rare, but it’s what we are called to grow into. Especially for those of us in ministry, pastors, leaders, servants, this is what sets us apart. We are called to reflect the character of Christ, and self-control is a vital part of that. It’s not just a gift; it’s fruit that must be cultivated in our lives.

Let me tell you something, anger is dangerous. It’s a silent killer. It will drain you without you even knowing. That’s why the Bible says in Colossians 3:13 that we should bear with one another and forgive, just as Christ forgave us. So let’s learn to forgive, truly forgive, and allow God take control Himself. You just be the child of God that you are, and learn not to dwell too much on things that won’t help you grow.

Now imagine you go to God and He says, “I’m not forgiving you.” We know what that means. So why, as the image of God, do we choose not to forgive? Even when they call you something else, say it’s because you can’t do anything that’s why you came to apologize, let them think what they want. You have done your part. You’ve made heaven proud, and you’ve chosen peace for yourself.

Because at the end of the day, forgiveness is not just for them, it’s for you.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, teach my heart to forgive deeply, just as You have forgiven me. Help me release every hurt, every offense, and every weight I’ve been holding onto. Give me the grace to let go, the strength to love beyond pain. Heal my heart, Lord, and make me more like You. In Jesus name, Amen