It’s part of being a ministry leader. We’ve all experienced times when a volunteer or team member let us down, or was the source of our grief or disappointment.

If you’re finding it difficult or painful to forgive someone who’s hurt you, consider using a scripture verse to work through your feelings. Picture the individual you need to forgive as you let God’s words gradually renew and refresh your heart.

Use these Bible references about forgiveness to begin the healing process:

Matthew 6:14-15

If you forgive those who sin against you, your heavenly Father will forgive you. But if you refuse to forgive others, your Father will not forgive your sins.

Mark 11:25

But when you are praying, first forgive anyone you are holding a grudge against, so that your Father in heaven will forgive your sins, too.

Colossians 3:13

Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others.

Matthew 18:21-22

Then Peter came to him and asked, “Lord, how often should I forgive someone who sins against me? Seven times?”  “No, not seven times,” Jesus replied, “but seventy times seven.”

Luke 6:37

Do not judge others, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn others, or it will all come back against you. Forgive others, and you will be forgiven.