We’ve all been hurt at some point in life, whether by a friend’s betrayal, a family member’s harsh words, or even a situation where we felt overlooked or mistreated.
These experiences leave wounds, and sometimes, we hold onto them without even realizing it. The hurt, anger, or resentment festers, and before long, it becomes a burden we carry with us everywhere we go.
Holding onto these painful experiences weighs down our hearts. But when we choose to release them, we’re making room for healing, peace, and growth.
The Bible offers clear guidance on how to deal with hurt: through forgiveness and love. Ephesians 4:32 tells us,
“Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.”
When we forgive, it’s not just about the other person—it’s about our own freedom from the bondage of bitterness.
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Forgiveness Brings Freedom
One of the hardest things to do is to forgive someone who has caused us pain.
It feels unfair, like we’re letting them off the hook. But in reality, forgiveness isn’t about excusing the hurtful action. It’s about setting ourselves free from the control that pain has over our lives.
When we forgive, we’re allowing God to heal our wounds and replace our anger with His peace.
Jesus showed this when He was on the cross. In Luke 23:34, He said,
“Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.”
Even in His most painful moment, Jesus chose to forgive. And He calls us to do the same, trusting that God is the ultimate judge and that healing comes from releasing the hurt into His hands.
Forgiveness isn’t easy, but it’s necessary.
It doesn’t happen all at once, either.
Sometimes, it’s a daily choice to let go of the hurt and trust that God will take care of the rest. But as we practice forgiveness, we begin to feel lighter, and the pain that once had such a grip on our hearts starts to fade.
Trust God with Your Pain
Another key part of letting go of the things that have hurt you is trusting God with your pain.
When we hold on to hurt, it’s often because we’re trying to protect ourselves. We believe that if we let go, we’ll be vulnerable again.
But God is our protector, and He promises to heal our hearts when we surrender our pain to Him.
Psalm 147:3 reminds us,
“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.”
There’s no pain too great for God to heal, no wound too deep for Him to mend. But we have to give Him access.
That means letting go of the things that have hurt us and trusting that He will bring healing in His perfect timing. It means believing that God’s plan for your life is filled with peace and joy, and that no past hurt can derail His purpose for you.
Reflect and Move On
Now is the time to pause and ask yourself: Are you holding onto something that has hurt you?
Is there an old wound or betrayal that still stirs anger or sadness in your heart?
Maybe it’s something someone said or did, or even something that happened years ago. Whatever it is, holding onto that pain is only holding you back from the healing and joy God has in store for you.
Take a moment to reflect.
Is it time to let go of that hurt?
Ask God to help you forgive and release the pain. You don’t have to carry it anymore.
God is inviting you to lay down your burdens and trust Him to heal your heart. Let go of what’s been holding you back, and step into the freedom and peace that comes with releasing your hurt to the One who knows you and loves you completely.
You can continue with the other Biblical truths to help you let go of the past devotions:
Bible Study & Reflection Questions
Reflection Questions
- What past hurts or betrayals are you still holding onto?
- How does holding onto hurt affect your relationship with God and others?
- Why do you think God asks us to forgive even when it’s difficult?
- How can you find peace in knowing that God sees your pain and is ready to heal your heart?
- What would your life look like if you fully let go of the hurt and allowed God to take control?
Practical Application Questions
- Write down one hurt you’ve been holding onto. Pray and ask God to help you forgive and let go.
- What steps can you take today to begin the process of forgiving someone who has hurt you?
- Reflect on Psalm 147:3. How does this verse encourage you to trust God with your pain?
- Set aside time this week to pray specifically for healing from a past wound. How can you actively invite God into your healing journey?
- Is there someone you need to have a conversation with in order to let go of the hurt? How can you approach it with grace and love?
Letting go of the things that have hurt us isn’t easy, but it’s an important step toward freedom and healing. God sees your pain, and He wants to help you release it.
When you forgive and let go, you’re not saying that what happened was okay—you’re simply choosing to trust God with the healing process.
He is ready to bind up your wounds and bring peace to your heart. As you walk forward in forgiveness, know that you’re making room for new joy, peace, and purpose in your life.
Trust Him with your pain, and allow His love to heal and restore you.
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