Forgiveness is the key to healing

There’s something that keeps so many of us stuck—not because we’re weak, but because we’ve been deeply wounded.

That something is unforgiveness.

Whether it’s a betrayal that cut deep, words that scarred, or silence that broke your heart, forgiveness can feel impossible when the pain still echoes. And yet, it is one of the most essential ingredients for living in freedom.

In this week’s episode of the Destiny Awaits podcast, I share a message on forgiveness—why it matters, how it sets us free, and how we can begin walking in it, even when it hurts.

But in case you’re not able to listen right now, I wanted to offer the heart of the message here. Because I believe this could be the moment that shifts everything for you.

Why Forgiveness Matters

Unforgiveness is like a prison we choose to stay in—while holding the key in our own hand.

It doesn’t just keep the other person bound in your memory. It keeps you stuck—rehearsing the offense, re-feeling the wound, re-experiencing the pain. And often, the person who hurt you has no idea the power they still hold over your thoughts, emotions, and peace.

Forgiveness doesn’t excuse what they did.
It releases the grip it has on you.

Jesus Made Forgiveness the Center

In the Lord’s Prayer, Jesus teaches us to say:
"Forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors."

Forgiveness is the only part of the prayer He elaborates on right after. Why? Because it’s that important. Because it’s that hard. And because God knew how desperately we’d need His help to do it.

Jesus forgave the people who crucified Him while they were doing it.
He said, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.”

That wasn’t weakness. That was power.
That was love beyond logic.
That was our example.

5 Steps to Process Forgiveness

If you’re ready to begin healing, here’s the simple but powerful process I shared in the episode:

1. Name the Pain
Stop minimizing it. Name the wound. Honor the truth of your experience. God isn't afraid of your pain—He's present in it.

2. Acknowledge the Debt
What do you feel this person owes you? An apology? An explanation? Justice?

3. Release it to God
Write a prayer like this:
“God, I forgive ___ for ___. I let go of this debt. I trust You with my healing.”

4. Ask for Healing
Invite God to come into the space the pain used to occupy. This is where the transformation begins. He will meet you here.

5. Repeat if Necessary
Some wounds go deep. You may need to forgive the same person for the same thing multiple times. That’s okay. Healing is a journey, not a checkbox.

You Deserve Freedom

You were never created to live bitter, guarded, or stuck in the past.
You were created to live whole, free, and anchored in love.

Forgiveness doesn’t change the past, but it can absolutely change your future.

If this message speaks to your heart, take the next step.
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🎧 Listen to the full episode on YouTube or your favorite podcast app