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Unless you have forgiven others for the sins they have committed against you, you will not be forgiven for the sins you have comitted:
Matthew 6:14-15 (KJV) - For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.
Sadly, many Christans refuse to forgive. We store unforgiveness in our hearts, tormenting ourselves (with bitterness, anger, and resentment) (1) in the hope to get revenge on those who wronged us; (2) see them 'pay' for what they did to us; and/or (3) awaiting for the person (people) to take responsibility for their actions (via apology). Revenge, 'payback,' and waiting for apologies isn't what God is calling us to do (Matthew 22:34-40). God wants us to love others and show mercy to them, just as He loved us and showed mercy to us through Jesus Christ (John 3:16; Matthew 18:21-35).
No matter how bad someone has hurt you, it pails in comparison with the wrong we (mankind) have committed against God. Please understand that this is not to belittle any unfortunate(s) event in your life, but the Bible speaks for itself. By holding onto unforgiveness, you will only hurt yourself (now and at the judgment) and those around you. Hurting people often hurt others.
Many times you truly want to forgive and move pass the past, but you just can't seem to get beyond it. The 'sting' of hurtful situations, emotions, and people keep you chained to unforgiveness and sin. No matter what you do, your mind and heart are overwhelmed with thoughts of condemnation, guilt, anxiety, hopelessness, despair, revenge, and even the situation(s) to stir your emotions.
Unforgiveness is a very serious issue and can keep you from the eternal life Jesus died to give you. No person or act should be so important that you are willing to risk your eternal salvation.
Are your words and actions exposing any unforgiveness against someone? Why have you held onto unforgiveness? Please seek God for help in identifying any residual area(s) of unforgiveness.
To walk in forgiveness is to treat the other person or group as if they had never wronged you.
