In this episode of The Appalachian Disciples, we discuss the importance of forgiving in a timely manner before unresolved hurt develops into bitterness, resentment, anger, and distance. Holding on to an offense may feel like protection, but it can keep us emotionally connected to the pain and allow the hurt to influence how we think, speak, love, trust, and respond to others.
Forgiveness does not mean approving of what happened, pretending the pain was not real, or allowing harmful behavior to continue. It means releasing bitterness, surrendering the desire for revenge, and trusting God with justice.