The Value of Forgiveness in Our Identity

Forgiveness is foundational to the Christian faith. Being a disciple of Christ means more than just accepting forgiveness for our sins because Jesus died on the cross for us; it means we also forgive others when they wrong us. But extending forgiveness to others doesn't come naturally, and when we're hurt or angry, we tend to revolve our lives around what happened instead of surrendering it and moving on. While forgiveness doesn't mean allowing others to continue hurting us, it also doesn't mean remaining captive to the past and our bitterness. When we forgive and surrender control over the situation to God, we become free from what has already happened and embrace the fullness of the future God has planned for us.