Forgiveness: A Spiritual Path to Freedom and Peace

“To forgive is to set a prisoner free and discover that the prisoner was you.”

– Lewis B. Smedes

Life has a way of wounding us — sometimes deeply. Betrayals, broken trust, harsh words, and painful memories can weigh heavily on the heart. When we have been hurt, the idea of forgiveness might feel impossible, even unfair. But what if forgiveness isn't about the other person at all? What if it is about your soul?

Forgiveness is not just an emotional or psychological act — it is a spiritual journey.

Why Forgiveness Matters to the Soul

In many spiritual traditions, forgiveness is a sacred act. It is a way of aligning ourselves with divine love, compassion, and grace. Holding onto anger or bitterness creates spiritual blockages. It disconnects us from our higher self and clouds our connection with the Divine.

When we forgive, we release not only the person who hurt us, but we release ourselves from the chains of resentment. We create space in our hearts for peace, light, and healing.

Forgiveness is . . .

• A spiritual surrender.

• A release of judgment.

• A decision to rise above pain.

• A step toward wholeness.

The Spiritual Gifts of Forgiveness

1.      Inner Peace
When we forgive, our souls rest. The tension eases. We begin to feel lighter, calmer, more grounded.

2.      Healing of the Heart
Forgiveness is like spiritual medicine. It does not erase the scar, but it heals the wound beneath.

3.      A Closer Connection to the Divine
The act of forgiving puts us in alignment with divine love — the unconditional kind that gives, heals, and restores.

A Gentle Process of Letting Go

Forgiveness is rarely a one-time decision. It is a process, one that requires patience, prayer, and self-compassion.

Here is a spiritual approach to begin:

1. Sit in Stillness

Find a quiet place. Breathe deeply. Invite divine presence into your space. Ask for guidance.

2. Acknowledge the Hurt

Be honest. You do not have to pretend it didn’t hurt. Write it down. Speak it aloud. Let your soul express the pain.

3. Offer it Up

In prayer, meditation, or reflection, offer the hurt to God, the Universe, or your Higher Power. Say:
"I give this pain to You. Teach me how to forgive. I am willing."

4. Bless the One Who Hurt You

This is not easy. But in spiritual growth, blessing our “enemies” purifies our own heart.
Try this: "May they find peace. May they grow in love. May they harm no one else."

5. Forgive Yourself Too

Often, we carry guilt, shame, or regret. You are worthy of grace too. Speak kindly to your own heart.

Spiritual Reflections for Forgiveness

• What pain am I still holding that is blocking my joy?

• Have I confused forgiveness with reconciliation?

• How does holding onto this hurt serve (or sabotage) my soul?

• What would it feel like to be free?

A Final Word: Forgiveness is Sacred Work

Forgiveness is not a weakness; it is divine strength. It is a conscious decision to release the grip of pain and to choose love, again and again. Not because others always deserve it, but because you deserve peace.

And in the silence of your soul, after the storm has passed, you may hear the quiet whisper of Spirit saying: “You are free."

As a spiritual life coach, I can help you navigate difficult forgiveness journeys. What are you ready to release today? Reach out to me and schedule a 20-minute discovery call.

Let Go. Heal. Rise.