Learning to Forgive When it Still Hurts

My Story of Healing After the Wreck

The Pain That Stays

In January 2020, my life changed forever. I was in a car wreck that left me with a metal hip. Recovery was long, painful, and slow. But the worst part wasn't the injury—it was the betrayal. The friend who had been driving left the scene. I was alone, hurting, and abandoned. That kind of hurt goes deeper than broken bones. I kept replaying it in my head, wondering how someone I trusted could just leave. I didn't know how to move on, and I definitely didn't know how to forgive.

"The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." – Psalm 34:18

What Forgiveness Isn't

At first, I had the wrong idea about forgiveness. I thought it meant acting like it didn't happen. That's not true. Forgiveness is NOT:

• Pretending it didn't hurt

• Saying what they did was okay

• Letting someone keep hurting you

• Feeling better instantly

"Do not repay anyone evil for evil... If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone." – Romans 12:17-18

What Forgiveness Is

Forgiveness is a choice. It's a decision to let go of the anger that's holding you back. Forgiveness means:

• Releasing the need to get even

• Trusting God to handle justice

• Choosing peace for your soul

"Bear with each other and forgive one another... Forgive as the Lord forgave you." – Colossians 3:13

Why Jesus Tells Us to Forgive

Jesus was betrayed, beaten, and crucified. Yet from the cross, He said, "Father, forgive them" (Luke 23:34).

"Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." – Ephesians 4:32

Forgiveness When the Pain Is Real

I had to be honest with God. My prayers weren't pretty. I told Him I was angry, hurt, and confused. And God listened.

"Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you." – 1 Peter 5:7

Why It's Worth It

Holding on to pain didn't make me stronger. It made me bitter. It kept me stuck in the past. Forgiving helped me move forward.

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." – Matthew 11:28

A Call to Forgive, A Call to Freedom

Forgiveness isn't weakness. It's real strength. It's choosing peace over pain. It's living free instead of stuck.

Call to Repentance:
If you’ve been trying to earn your way into heaven, it’s time to stop striving and start surrendering. Today can be the day everything changes. The Bible says in 2 Corinthians 6:2, “Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” Don’t wait for a better moment. Turn from your sin, believe in the finished work of Jesus Christ on the cross, and receive the gift of eternal life. He is calling—respond to Him today.

Call to Action:
If this message spoke to your heart, don’t keep it to yourself. Share it with someone you love—and make sure to subscribe so you never miss more biblical truth, encouragement, and hope. Let’s walk this journey of faith together.