Bible verses about forgiveness
Forgiving is one of the hardest things the Bible asks — and one of the things it promises most. It describes God's forgiveness with generous images: sins removed as far as the east is from the west, scarlet turned white as snow. And it ties the forgiveness we receive to the forgiveness we give: "forgiving each other, even as God also forgave you". Peter asks whether seven times is enough; Jesus answers seventy times seven, that is, without counting. Forgiving does not mean saying the wrong did not matter, nor does it require returning to an unsafe situation; it means releasing the right to collect. The verses below help on both sides: for those carrying guilt and for those carrying hurt. Read them slowly and, if it applies, with a name in mind.
Frequently asked questions
How many times should I forgive?
Jesus answers Peter in Matthew 18:22: "not until seven times, but until seventy times seven" — a number that means "stop counting".
Does forgiving mean forgetting?
No. Forgiving is giving up the right to collect the debt; the memory may remain, and healthy boundaries still apply. What changes is the weight you carry.
How do I ask God for forgiveness?
1 John 1:9 says that if we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive. Say honestly what you did, ask for forgiveness and accept that you have been forgiven.
See also
Scripture text: World English Bible (WEB), public domain. Prayers, introductions and reflections: original text by this site, not affiliated with any denomination. Devotional content; it does not replace medical, psychological or legal advice.