What a powerful reminder of God’s grace in these 40+ Bible Verses About Forgiving Others Who Hurt You! These verses offer strength when emotions feel heavy, encouragement when hearts are wounded, and reassurance that forgiveness is a path to peace. Each scripture brings comfort and clarity for those seeking to release bitterness and embrace healing.
Forgiving someone who has hurt you is deeply challenging, yet the Bible speaks often about mercy, love, and letting go of resentment. While it may not name every personal situation, God’s Word still provides timeless wisdom on forgiveness. This collection of verses is meant to guide your heart, strengthen your faith, and help you experience the freeing power of forgiveness. Let each verse speak to your soul and lead you toward peace.
What Does the Bible Say About Forgiving Others Who Hurt You?
The Bible teaches that forgiveness is not optional but a command for Christians. In Matthew 18:21-22, Jesus emphasizes forgiving others not just seven times, but seventy-seven times. This shows that forgiveness should be limitless, reflecting God’s infinite mercy toward us. It’s a call to release bitterness and embrace grace.
Forgiving others who hurt you isn’t always easy, but it’s essential for healing. Ephesians 4:32 encourages us to forgive others “just as God forgave you in Christ.” By forgiving, we mirror God’s unconditional love and set ourselves free from resentment. It’s an act of obedience that fosters spiritual growth.
In Luke 6:37, Jesus tells us, “Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.” Forgiveness is not just for the one who wronged you, but also for your own peace. It’s a way to live in harmony with others, avoiding the destructive power of unforgiveness.
Finally, forgiveness doesn’t always mean reconciliation or excusing the harm caused. Romans 12:19 reminds us that vengeance belongs to God, not to us. Forgiveness means releasing the hurt to Him, trusting that He will deal with it justly. In doing so, we can heal, move forward, and embrace God’s peace.
The List of 40+ Bible Verses About Forgiving Others Who Hurt You
1. Forgiving Others as God Forgives Us
Purpose:
Forgiveness begins when we reflect on the mercy God has shown us. Through Jesus, we received undeserved grace. These verses encourage us to forgive others with that same heart — not because they always deserve it, but because we are called to live like Christ. When we forgive, we release pain and invite peace into our lives.
📖 Ephesians 4:32
“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”
Explanation:
This verse points us directly to the heart of Christian forgiveness. God’s mercy toward us was not based on merit — it was a gift of love. When we forgive others, even those who deeply hurt us, we reflect His character. Letting go of bitterness allows kindness and compassion to grow. True healing begins when we follow Christ’s example.
📖 Colossians 3:13
“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”
Explanation:
This verse reminds us that forgiveness is not optional — it’s a command grounded in God’s grace. Just as the Lord forgave us, we are expected to forgive others. Holding onto grudges keeps us chained to the past. Forgiveness doesn’t mean forgetting the pain, but releasing it into God’s hands. It brings emotional and spiritual freedom.
📖 Luke 6:37
“Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.”
Explanation:
Jesus connects forgiveness with the condition of our hearts. If we want to be free from judgment and condemnation, we must learn to release others through forgiveness. This verse teaches that bitterness and harsh judgment only damage our souls. Forgiving others not only pleases God — it cleanses our own spirit.
📖 Matthew 6:14-15
“For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.”
Explanation:
This verse gives a serious and sobering truth — our forgiveness is linked to how we treat others. God wants us to walk in humility, letting go of resentment. If we choose unforgiveness, we block the flow of grace in our own lives. True faith involves releasing the debts others owe us, trusting God for justice.
📖 Psalm 103:10-12
“He does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities… as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us.”
Explanation:
God’s forgiveness is complete and unconditional. He removes our sins completely — never to be held against us again. When we model our forgiveness after His, we release people from their past mistakes. It doesn’t mean trusting them blindly, but it means refusing to carry the weight of their wrongs forever.
📖 Micah 7:18-19
“Who is a God like you, who pardons sin and forgives the transgression… You will again have compassion on us; you will tread our sins underfoot…”
Explanation:
Micah marvels at God’s mercy — a mercy we are called to reflect. God doesn’t hold grudges; instead, He stomps out our sins with compassion. When we forgive others, we walk in step with God’s heart. It’s a supernatural act of love that breaks the cycle of hurt and opens doors to restoration.
📖 Romans 5:8
“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
Explanation:
This verse is the foundation of all forgiveness — Christ died for us even while we were unworthy. If God could love us at our worst, we are called to show love even when others fail us. Forgiveness is never earned; it is offered freely as an act of grace. It’s love in action.
📖 Isaiah 1:18
“Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool.”
Explanation:
God’s forgiveness transforms and purifies. No matter how deep the wound or offense, His grace covers all. When we choose to forgive others, we reflect that same cleansing power. Forgiveness doesn’t excuse wrongs — it redeems brokenness and restores peace. God’s mercy makes all things new.
Find Your Blessings: 40+ Bible Verses For Birthdays To Bless Their Day
2. Trusting God’s Plan for Your Life
Purpose:
Life is full of uncertainty, and it’s easy to feel lost or confused about what lies ahead. But God has a purpose for every season, and His plan is always better than ours. These verses remind us to place full confidence in God’s timing, guidance, and wisdom, even when we don’t understand the journey.
📖 Jeremiah 29:11
“‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’”
Explanation:
This verse is a promise of hope in uncertain times. Even when life feels chaotic or painful, God’s plan remains good. He is not trying to harm you — He’s building a better future through every step. Trusting His vision helps you walk forward with peace, knowing He holds your future securely in His hands.
📖 Proverbs 3:5-6
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
Explanation:
Our understanding is limited, but God sees the full picture. This verse calls us to surrender our own reasoning and depend fully on Him. Trust isn’t always easy, especially when things don’t make sense. But when you let go and submit your way to God, He clears the path before you with divine direction.
📖 Romans 8:28
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
Explanation:
Even your pain has purpose in God’s hands. This verse assures you that everything — even your failures or delays — can be used for good. Trusting God’s plan means believing He’s working behind the scenes. You may not understand the “why,” but faith believes in the “who” — a God who never wastes a moment.
📖 Isaiah 55:8-9
“‘For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,’ declares the Lord…”
Explanation:
God’s ways often differ from ours, and that’s a good thing. His wisdom goes beyond what we can comprehend. When things don’t go our way, it doesn’t mean God’s forgotten us — it means He’s operating at a higher level. Trusting His plan is trusting that He knows what’s best, even when we can’t see it.
📖 Psalm 37:5
“Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him and he will do this.”
Explanation:
Commitment means surrendering control and placing your plans in God’s hands. This verse encourages you to let go of worry and place your trust in the One who never fails. God won’t just observe your steps — He’ll guide them, bless them, and bring His purpose to life through them.
📖 Ecclesiastes 3:1
“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.”
Explanation:
This verse reminds us that life unfolds in seasons. Just because things are delayed doesn’t mean they are denied. Trusting God’s plan means embracing every season — the quiet ones, the painful ones, and the joyful ones — with faith that He is working in them all for a purpose.
📖 Philippians 1:6
“He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”
Explanation:
God finishes what He starts. If He planted a purpose in your heart, He will bring it to life. Even when you feel stuck or discouraged, He is still working. Trust that the same God who began your journey will be faithful to complete it in His perfect timing.
📖 Job 42:2
“I know that you can do all things; no purpose of yours can be thwarted.”
Explanation:
Job recognizes that nothing can stop God’s plans. When life hits hard, we may feel like everything is falling apart — but God’s purpose stands firm. This verse gives confidence that His will cannot be defeated. Trusting God means resting in the truth that His purpose for you will prevail.
Find Your Blessings: Best 40+ Bible Verses For Putting The Past Behind You
3. Leading with Wisdom and Vision
Purpose:
Leadership without God’s wisdom leads to confusion and failure. God calls leaders to seek His direction, walk in humility, and guide others with clarity. These verses encourage leaders to depend on divine wisdom and vision to make decisions that reflect God’s heart and plan.
📖 Proverbs 29:18
“Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.”
Explanation:
Vision gives life, order, and direction. Without it, people wander and lose focus. God’s vision brings purpose to your leadership, helping others thrive. This verse reminds leaders to seek divine guidance, not just personal ambition, and to lead in alignment with God’s truth and law.
📖 James 1:5
“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault…”
Explanation:
God never withholds wisdom from those who seek Him sincerely. As a leader, you’ll face many tough decisions — and this verse encourages you to turn to God first. When you feel unsure, God is ready to provide clear direction without judgment. His wisdom equips you to lead with confidence and humility.
📖 Habakkuk 2:2-3
“Write down the revelation and make it plain… For the revelation awaits an appointed time…”
Explanation:
A good leader doesn’t just receive vision — they communicate it clearly. God instructs leaders to make His direction understandable and visible to others. Even if fulfillment takes time, patience is part of visionary leadership. Trust that what God has revealed will come to pass at the right moment.
📖 Proverbs 16:9
“In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.”
Explanation:
We may create plans, but true direction comes from God. This verse reminds leaders to stay humble and open to divine course-correction. When God interrupts your plans, it’s not failure — it’s His redirection. Let Him lead every step so your leadership stays aligned with His will.
📖 1 Kings 3:9
“So give your servant a discerning heart to govern your people and to distinguish between right and wrong…”
Explanation:
Solomon’s request shows what godly leadership looks like — a deep hunger for wisdom. As a leader, your influence impacts many lives. This verse teaches that seeking God’s wisdom is far more valuable than personal talent or experience. With His discernment, your leadership becomes just and effective.
📖 Psalm 78:72
“And David shepherded them with integrity of heart; with skillful hands he led them.”
Explanation:
Leadership rooted in character and competence pleases God. David’s example shows the balance of heart and ability. Leading with integrity builds trust; leading with skill brings results. God calls you to develop both — to lead with compassion, wisdom, and excellence.
📖 Isaiah 30:21
“Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, ‘This is the way; walk in it.'”
Explanation:
God doesn’t leave His leaders confused. This verse is a promise that His guidance is always available. When you’re uncertain or face pressure, pause and listen — God will speak. He leads through peace, direction, and confirmation. Trust His voice above all others.
📖 1 Timothy 3:1-2
“If anyone aspires to be an overseer… he must be above reproach, faithful to his wife, temperate, self-controlled…”
Explanation:
Leadership comes with high responsibility. Paul lays out the qualities needed for godly leadership, highlighting character and maturity. It’s not about power, but service. This verse reminds us that spiritual leadership begins with personal integrity and a life that reflects Christ’s example.
Find Your Blessings: Top 40+ Baseball Bible Verses for Athletes & Fans
4. Finding Strength in Times of Weakness
Purpose:
Life often brings moments of exhaustion, grief, or defeat. In those moments, we must remember that God’s strength is made perfect in our weakness. These verses reveal how God sustains us when we can’t go on, offering supernatural strength and courage when we feel broken or tired.
📖 2 Corinthians 12:9
“But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’…”
Explanation:
This verse is a reminder that God doesn’t need your strength — He works best when you’re weak. When you feel powerless, His power steps in to carry you. Instead of hiding your struggles, bring them to God. His grace will not only sustain you but also transform your pain into purpose.
📖 Isaiah 40:29
“He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.”
Explanation:
God is not just aware of your weakness — He actively responds to it. When you feel worn down, He pours strength into your soul. This verse assures you that weariness is not the end. When human energy fails, divine strength rises to take its place.
📖 Psalm 73:26
“My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.”
Explanation:
Our physical and emotional strength can collapse under pressure, but God remains constant. This verse shows that while everything else may fall apart, God is the core strength of our being. When your heart breaks or your body gives out, God remains your solid foundation.
📖 Philippians 4:13
“I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”
Explanation:
Paul isn’t boasting in himself — he’s declaring that Christ is his strength source. This verse is a powerful declaration for every believer: with Christ, you are never limited. Even when you feel incapable, His strength is available for every challenge and calling in your life.
📖 Deuteronomy 31:6
“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid… for the Lord your God goes with you…”
Explanation:
This is more than encouragement — it’s a command backed by God’s presence. No matter how intimidating your situation may be, you’re not alone. God goes with you into every battle, and that promise gives you the courage to stand strong even in fear.
📖 Psalm 46:1
“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.”
Explanation:
God isn’t distant when trouble comes — He’s right there. This verse reminds us that God is both a safe place and a power source. In the middle of chaos, He shelters you. In the heart of weakness, He fuels you. His help never arrives late.
📖 Nehemiah 8:10
“…Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”
Explanation:
True strength doesn’t always look like power — sometimes, it comes through joy. This verse teaches that joy rooted in God brings energy and endurance. Even in grief or trials, His joy lifts the spirit and renews your inner strength to keep moving forward.
📖 Exodus 15:2
“The Lord is my strength and my defense; he has become my salvation.”
Explanation:
This verse, sung after deliverance from Egypt, shows that God is more than a helper — He’s the strength behind every victory. When you feel defenseless, God stands as your protector. When life feels like a battle, He becomes your strength and shield.
Find Your Blessings: 40+ Powerful Top 10 Bible Verses Tagalog (With Commentary)
5. Peace in the Middle of Storms
Purpose:
Storms of life come in many forms — stress, loss, confusion, or fear. God offers peace that doesn’t depend on circumstances. These verses encourage us to stay anchored in His promises, trusting that He can calm our inner storm even if the outer one still rages.
📖 John 14:27
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives…”
Explanation:
Jesus offers peace unlike anything this world provides. It’s not temporary or shallow — it’s deep and lasting. Even in painful moments, His peace calms anxious hearts. This verse reminds us that true peace doesn’t come from changed circumstances but from His presence within us.
📖 Isaiah 26:3
“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.”
Explanation:
Peace starts in the mind. When your thoughts are fixed on God instead of fear, peace floods your soul. This verse reveals that trust is the key to stability. Even in emotional storms, a mind anchored in God’s promises will not be shaken.
📖 Philippians 4:6-7
“Do not be anxious about anything… and the peace of God… will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”
Explanation:
God doesn’t just offer peace — He guards your heart with it. When anxiety rises, the way out is through prayer and thankfulness. This verse promises that when we hand over our worries, God returns peace that protects our inner life like a shield.
📖 Mark 4:39
“He got up, rebuked the wind and said… ‘Quiet! Be still!’ Then the wind died down and it was completely calm.”
Explanation:
Jesus’ power over the storm shows His authority over everything — even chaos. This moment reveals that He doesn’t panic with us; He speaks peace into every whirlwind. Even if your situation feels out of control, remember that Jesus still calms storms with a word.
📖 Colossians 3:15
“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts…”
Explanation:
Peace isn’t just a feeling — it’s a decision to let Christ be in charge. This verse challenges us to choose peace as a lifestyle. When the peace of Jesus “rules” your heart, it means you’re no longer guided by fear or stress, but by calm, divine assurance.
📖 Psalm 4:8
“In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety.”
Explanation:
God’s peace reaches into even the most vulnerable moments, like sleep. This verse is a nighttime promise for restless hearts. When fears keep you awake, God’s safety offers rest. He watches over you so that you can surrender your worries and find true calm.
📖 Romans 15:13
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him…”
Explanation:
Peace and hope are connected. The more you trust God, the more peace He pours into your soul. This verse is both a blessing and a prayer — a reminder that when you anchor yourself in faith, peace doesn’t trickle in — it overflows from the God of hope.
📖 2 Thessalonians 3:16
“Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way…”
Explanation:
This verse confirms that peace isn’t seasonal or occasional — it’s available always. God is described here as the Lord of peace, meaning it flows from His very nature. Whatever you’re facing, He is capable of bringing peace into every situation and every heart.
Find Your Blessings: 40+ Bible Verses For Self-Worth To Uplift Your Soul
6. Trusting God’s Plan for Your Life
Purpose:
When life doesn’t make sense or when prayers seem unanswered, trusting God’s plan can be difficult. These verses remind us that God sees the bigger picture. His plan is full of hope, purpose, and perfect timing—even when we don’t understand it in the moment.
📖 Jeremiah 29:11
“‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord… ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’”
Explanation:
God isn’t improvising with your life—He has a clear, intentional plan for your good. This verse assures us that even when the present feels uncertain, the future is secure in His hands. He’s working behind the scenes to bring hope, not harm, and blessings, not burdens.
📖 Proverbs 3:5-6
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding…”
Explanation:
Trusting God means letting go of the need to have all the answers. This verse urges us to release our reliance on logic and instead follow God’s leading. He promises to direct our path—not just randomly, but with precision and love—when we surrender fully to Him.
📖 Romans 8:28
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him…”
Explanation:
Even the painful parts of life are part of a greater picture. This verse doesn’t say all things are good—it says God uses all things for good. That means nothing is wasted. Your trials, delays, and setbacks are tools in God’s hands to shape a purposeful future.
📖 Psalm 32:8
“I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.”
Explanation:
God isn’t distant or silent—He’s actively involved in guiding your life. This verse paints a picture of a caring Father watching you closely, ready to lead you step-by-step. You’re not wandering alone; His direction comes with attention, affection, and clarity.
📖 Isaiah 55:8-9
“‘For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,’ declares the Lord…”
Explanation:
God’s plan often looks nothing like ours because His wisdom far surpasses human logic. This verse reminds us that just because something doesn’t make sense to us doesn’t mean it’s wrong. Trusting God means accepting that His ways are better—even when we don’t understand them.
📖 Ecclesiastes 3:1
“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.”
Explanation:
Life unfolds in seasons—some joyful, others difficult. This verse reassures us that nothing happens outside of God’s divine timing. If you’re in a waiting phase or a tough moment, remember: it’s just one part of your journey. God knows the right time for every breakthrough.
📖 Job 42:2
“I know that you can do all things; no purpose of yours can be thwarted.”
Explanation:
Even Job, after enduring unimaginable suffering, acknowledges God’s unshakable plan. This verse teaches us that God’s will always prevails, no matter what challenges arise. When we trust in His sovereignty, we can find peace knowing that no human error or enemy can stop His purpose for us.
📖 Psalm 37:5
“Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him and he will do this.”
Explanation:
Surrender isn’t weakness—it’s trust. This verse calls us to hand over our path to God and allow Him to take control. When we do, He moves on our behalf in ways we couldn’t imagine. Trusting His plan opens the door to divine action and favor in our lives.
Conclusion
Forgiveness is more than an emotional release—it’s a spiritual decision that brings healing and freedom. As we’ve explored in 40+ Bible Verses About Forgiving Others Who Hurt You, scripture gives us the strength to let go of bitterness and trust God’s justice and mercy.
Each section of this article reminds us that forgiveness is rooted in God’s character and His plan for our lives. Whether you’re leading, healing, or growing, these verses offer hope, direction, and the peace that comes from aligning your heart with God’s vision.
FAQ’s
What does the Bible say about forgiving someone who hurt you deeply?
The Bible encourages us to forgive just as God forgives us (Ephesians 4:32). Even when the pain is deep, God calls us to release anger and choose mercy. Forgiveness doesn’t ignore hurt—it invites healing.
How can I forgive if the person doesn’t apologize?
Forgiveness is a decision you make for your own peace, not a reward for someone else’s apology. Romans 12:19 reminds us that God will deal with injustice. Your job is to let go and trust Him.
Why is forgiveness important for Christians?
Forgiveness reflects God’s love and grace. Jesus taught us to forgive others as He forgives us (Matthew 6:14-15). It frees you from resentment and restores your relationship with God and others.
Can I forgive and still set boundaries?
Absolutely. Forgiveness doesn’t mean allowing toxic behavior to continue. It means releasing resentment while setting healthy, God-honoring boundaries (Proverbs 4:23).
What Bible verses can I read daily to help me forgive?
Verses from the sections above like Matthew 6:14-15, Colossians 3:13, Luke 6:37, and Ephesians 4:31-32 are great for daily reflection. These reminders help keep your heart aligned with God’s forgiving nature.
Want to discover more Bible-based insights? Check out our collection of verses at BibleMiracle.com
