Bible Study for Forgiveness: Letting Go and Moving On
Forgiveness is one of the most challenging commands in Scripture — yet it’s also one of the most freeing. Whether you’re struggling to forgive someone who hurt you, or you need to receive God’s forgiveness yourself, the Bible offers a clear path to healing and release. This Bible study for forgiveness will walk you through key Scriptures, practical steps, and daily habits to help you let go and move on in peace.
Why Forgiveness Matters
- It’s commanded by God: Jesus calls us to forgive as we have been forgiven (Ephesians 4:32).
- It frees you from bondage: Unforgiveness keeps you tied to the past; forgiveness sets you free.
- It reflects God’s heart: Forgiveness is at the center of the Gospel.
Key Bible Verses About Forgiveness
- Matthew 6:14–15 — If you forgive others… your heavenly Father will also forgive you.
- Colossians 3:13 — Forgive as the Lord forgave you.
- Psalm 103:12 — As far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us.
- Mark 11:25 — When you stand praying, forgive, so that your Father may forgive you.
- 1 John 1:9 — If we confess our sins, He is faithful… to forgive us and cleanse us.
A 5-Step Daily Forgiveness Routine
- Begin with prayer: Ask God to reveal any bitterness or offense in your heart.
- Read a forgiveness verse: Let the truth sink in slowly.
- Name the hurt: Acknowledge what happened without sugarcoating.
- Release it to God: Verbally surrender the offense to Him.
- Pray blessing over the person: This may be hard, but it shifts your heart toward grace.
4-Week Bible Study Plan on Forgiveness
Five sessions per week; rest days for reflection.
- Week 1 — God’s Forgiveness for You: Ps 32; Mic 7:18–19; Isa 1:18; Rom 8:1; Eph 1:7
- Week 2 — Forgiving Others: Mt 18:21–35; Col 3:12–14; Mk 11:25; Lk 6:37; Prov 19:11
- Week 3 — Letting Go of the Past: Isa 43:18–19; Phil 3:13–14; 2 Cor 5:17; Ps 103:12; Heb 8:12
- Week 4 — Living in Freedom: Gal 5:1; Jn 8:36; 2 Tim 1:7; Ps 119:165; 1 Pet 5:7
Practical Ways to Let Go
- Journal your feelings: Putting emotions on paper helps release their hold.
- Replace resentment with prayer: Each time bitterness rises, pray for God’s peace.
- Set healthy boundaries: Forgiveness doesn’t mean allowing continued harm.
- Surround yourself with truth: Worship, Scripture, and godly community keep your heart soft.
How Bible Study Apps Can Support Forgiveness
- Daily reminders: Keeps you anchored in God’s Word during the process.
- Interactive lessons: Help you apply Scripture in real situations.
- Streak tracking: Encourages consistency in renewing your mind.
A Forgiveness Prayer
Lord, I bring my hurt before You. I choose to forgive, not because it’s easy, but because You forgave me first. Heal my heart, break the chains of bitterness, and fill me with Your peace. Help me move forward with grace and wisdom. Amen.
Final Encouragement
Forgiveness is not a one-time event — it’s often a journey. But each step you take toward letting go draws you closer to the freedom Jesus promises. You don’t have to do it alone; God’s Spirit will guide you into peace that passes understanding.