The Healing Power of Forgiveness: Letting Go of Hurt

The Pain We Carry

Life in this world can be overwhelming, and it’s difficult to go through it without facing hurt at some point. If I asked, “Who here has been hurt?” we would all have to admit to it. We’ve all been wronged. As a counselor, I’ve heard countless stories of abuse, betrayal, and pain that have deeply affected others, and myself as well. In the college cafe, I’ve listened to heartbreaking accounts of unfaithfulness, abuse, and despair that have shattered my heart. I’ve also counseled students whose stories have left me questioning the very nature of human suffering.

Have you ever felt weighed down by resentment or anger? You’re not alone. Many people struggle with holding onto past hurts, and it can feel as if it’s eating you away inside. But what if you could alleviate that burden by embracing forgiveness? By letting go of the pain you’ve carried for so long, you can find the healing you’ve been searching for.

The Story of the Boy and the Bee

A man once passed a boy sitting on a park bench, crying. When the man asked, “Why are you crying?” the boy replied, “I’m sitting on a bee.” The man said, “Why don’t you get up?” The boy responded, “I want to hurt this bee as much as it has hurt me.”
This story illustrates how, when we are hurt or wronged, we often hold on to that pain—seeking revenge or continuing to suffer just like the boy with the bee. But all this does is cause us more pain, leaving us stagnant and unable to move forward with our lives.

Matthew 6:15

“But if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.”
Forgiveness is not just essential for personal peace—it’s also crucial for our spiritual well-being. Not only can unforgiveness prevent us from moving forward in life, but it can also hinder our relationship with God.

The Challenge of Forgiving Ourselves

Forgiving others may seem easier than forgiving yourself. I know, because as a perfectionist, I always strive to get things right. When I fail, I become my harshest critic. I blamed myself for my mistakes and held onto the guilt, unable to forgive myself. But I once heard someone say, “To hold something new in your hands, you must let go of the old.”

To heal and move forward, we must release the hurt others have caused us—and the hurt we inflict on ourselves.

Forgiveness and Spiritual Healing

As a Christian, I’ve learned that God’s forgiveness is tied to our ability to forgive others—and even ourselves. Forgiveness is a gift. If your hands are full of unforgiveness, you cannot receive the forgiveness that God offers, nor can you experience peace. Our hands must be empty of bitterness and hurt to truly receive God’s love and forgiveness.

When you forgive, you prioritize your emotional well-being over the pain others or yourself have caused. This opens the door to compassion, empathy, and greater spiritual health.

Benefits of Embracing Forgiveness

Embracing forgiveness brings profound benefits for emotional, spiritual, and physical well-being. Here’s how forgiveness can improve your life:

Emotional Benefits

Forgiveness brings inner peace and emotional healing. It frees you from the weight of resentment and anger, giving you mental clarity and emotional space. Letting go of past wrongs fosters love, compassion, and stronger relationships. For instance, forgiving a friend can restore trust and strengthen your connection.
Forgiveness also lowers the risk of depression and anxiety. Studies show that those who practice forgiveness have greater emotional resilience and enjoy better mental health overall.

Physical Health Benefits

Forgiveness doesn’t just heal your heart—it can also benefit your body. Research shows that forgiveness lowers stress, which in turn reduces blood pressure and improves overall physical health. By letting go of grudges and focusing on healing, you reduce the negative impact stress has on your body.

Conclusion: Healing Through Forgiveness

Forgiveness is not just about letting go of pain—it’s about making room for healing and growth. By forgiving others and yourself, you can experience emotional freedom, spiritual peace, and better physical health.
Take a moment to reflect—what grudges or hurts are you holding onto? How can you begin to embrace forgiveness today?