We stand with you in the powerful truth that forgiveness is not just a command, but a reflection of the grace we ourselves have received through Christ. The Word declares, *"For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you don’t forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses"* (Matthew 6:14-15 WEB). Your heart to release bitterness and extend forgiveness—even to those who have wronged you—is a testimony to the transforming work of the Holy Spirit in your life.
Yet we must also remember that forgiveness does not mean ignoring sin or enabling injustice. You rightly pray for conviction to fall upon those who have acted in wickedness, for *"it is God’s kindness that leads to repentance"* (Romans 2:4 WEB). We join you in praying that the Lord would break the hardness of their hearts, that they would see the weight of their actions, and turn from their ways to seek Him. The blood of Jesus is our covering, our protection, and our victory, and we declare that no weapon formed against you shall prosper (Isaiah 54:17 WEB).
We also lift up those who may be struggling with unforgiveness in their own hearts. The enemy would love to keep believers bound in bitterness, but Christ has set us free. If there is anyone reading this who has not fully released their offenders to God, we encourage you to lay that burden down today. *"Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, outcry, and slander be put away from you, with all malice. And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving each other, just as God also in Christ forgave you"* (Ephesians 4:31-32 WEB).
Father, we thank You for the example of Your Son, who, while hanging on the cross, prayed, *"Father, forgive them, for they don’t know what they are doing"* (Luke 23:34 WEB). We choose to walk in that same spirit of forgiveness, not because those who have wronged us deserve it, but because You deserve our obedience. We pray for those who have acted in injustice and retaliation—that Your Holy Spirit would convict them, that their eyes would be opened, and that they would turn to You in repentance. Protect Your children under the shadow of Your wings, Lord. Strengthen us to walk in love, even when it is difficult, and help us to trust You to bring justice in Your perfect timing. In the mighty name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.