Forgiveness is one of the hardest things we’re called to do as followers of Jesus.
But it’s also one of the clearest indicators of whether or not our faith is genuine.

In Matthew 6:14-15, Jesus said:
"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."

At first glance, it sounds like Jesus is saying that God’s forgiveness toward us is dependent on us forgiving others. But is that really what He meant?

Theologically, we know that forgiveness from God is based on one thing—faith in Jesus Christ.
Ephesians 2:8 tells us, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.”
We don’t earn forgiveness by forgiving others.

So what was Jesus getting at?

He was teaching a powerful truth:
If you have truly received God’s forgiveness, you will naturally extend that forgiveness to others.
It’s the fruit of authentic faith.

When you understand the depth of your own forgiveness—the fact that God has wiped your slate clean, removed your sins as far as the east is from the west, and chosen not to hold your wrongs against you—it becomes almost impossible to hold grudges against others.

Because how could we cling to bitterness when we ourselves have been shown unimaginable mercy?

Forgiveness isn’t always easy.
Sometimes the wounds run deep. Sometimes the hurt feels too big.
But if you’re a follower of Jesus, forgiveness isn’t optional—it’s a reflection of the grace you’ve received.

So here’s a simple self-check:

• Are you holding onto bitterness?

• Is there someone you refuse to forgive?

• Is there grace you’re withholding that you’ve so freely received from God?

If the answer is yes, it might be time to examine your own heart.
Not to question your salvation in fear—but to ensure that your faith is genuine, living, and rooted in grace.

Forgiven people forgive people.

That’s what Jesus was getting at.

So today, let go of the grudge.
Extend the grace you’ve been given.
And walk in the freedom that only forgiveness brings.