When You’re Trying to Forgive Someone Who Hurt You - Devotional For Women

When You’re Trying to Forgive Someone Who Hurt You

“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”
— Ephesians 4:32 (NIV)

Devotional Thought

Forgiveness is one of the hardest things God asks of us. Especially when the hurt still lingers, the wound still stings, and the apology never came.

Maybe they never acknowledged what they did. Maybe they moved on like nothing happened, while you’re left holding the broken pieces.

Forgiveness doesn’t mean forgetting. It doesn’t mean what happened was okay. It means you're choosing to release the bitterness before it eats you alive.

It’s not a one-time act — it’s a process. Some days, you’ll feel free. Other days, the pain returns like a wave. That’s okay. God is patient. He’s walking with you through it.

Forgiveness isn’t weakness — it’s strength. It means trusting God to deal with justice, so your heart can begin to heal.

Honest Prayer

Lord, I’m struggling to forgive. The pain still feels real, and I don’t want to let it go — but I know You’re calling me to freedom. Help me, God. Not to excuse what happened, but to release the grip it has on my heart. I give You the anger, the confusion, the sadness. Heal what’s broken in me. Teach me to forgive like You have forgiven me — fully and freely.

In Jesus’ name,
Amen.

Reflection Questions

• Who is someone you need to forgive, even if they never say “I’m sorry”?
• What emotions are you holding onto that you could surrender to God today?
• How has God’s forgiveness changed your own heart and life?

Forgiveness isn’t about them — it’s about setting your heart free.

God sees your pain, and He promises to bring healing — one surrendered moment at a time.