Hey, Terry Tuinder here from Experiencing His Victory! Today, we are tackling forgiveness myth number eleven: Forgiveness is weakness.
Many people believe that if they are hurt, they must hurt back. They see life as an arena where you meet force with force. If you forgive, you are a pushover or a doormat, and people will just take advantage of you. But this belief could not be further from the truth.
The Cycle of Revenge
I remember reading a book series back in the 70s called The Executioner. The main character seeks total revenge after his family is tragically murdered. That series has over 450 books — an endless cycle of "You hurt me, I will hurt you back." But that mindset does not lead to victory. It causes wars to escalate and leads to total destruction. Real strength does not come from striking back — it comes from the character required to let go.
The Ultimate Example of Strength
The strongest person to ever walk the earth was a forgiving person. Even as He was being nailed to a cross, Jesus asked God to forgive those who were killing Him because they did not know what they were doing. Forgiveness is not a sign of a weak will; it is evidence of a powerful spirit.
It takes four massive pillars of strength to truly forgive:
Pillar 1: Strength of Character
It takes incredible internal fortitude to forgive someone who has done you wrong. While it feels tough to retaliate, it actually takes more muscle — spiritual and emotional — to stay your hand. The great part is that God never asks us to do this in our own strength. He is our helper, and He empowers us through the Holy Spirit to live a life that glorifies Him.
Pillar 2: True Courage
It is easy to respond in like measure. Saying "You hit me, I hit you" does not take courage — it is a reflex. True courage is choosing to stop the cycle of chaos and destruction. Forgiveness brings life and abundance; revenge brings only death and destruction.
Pillar 3: Faith in God
Forgiveness is an act of faith. As believers, we trust that when God tells us to forgive, He knows what is best for us. We forgive on the basis of what Jesus said: "Freely you have received, freely give." Since we have been forgiven for every sin we have ever committed, we have the foundation to release others from their sins.
Pillar 4: Absolute Trust in God as Judge
Forgiveness is saying, "Lord, I am placing this person into Your hands. I am not going to be the judge, the jury, and the executioner. I trust You to take care of them." Ultimately, God is the judge. If you are covered in the blood of Jesus, your sins are covered. Those who reject Him will answer for their deeds. You do not have to carry the burden of being the avenger.
Step Into Strength Today
If there is any unforgiveness in your heart, release it. It is not a sign of weakness — it is a sign of courage, strength, faith, and trust. As Proverbs 3:5-6 (NASB95) says, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight."
Do not lean on your own understanding of strength. Trust the Lord, release that person, and give them to Him in the name of Jesus.
Have a blessed day!
