Every parent needs grace and forgiveness, because every parent makes mistakes. Have you been hurt by one or both of your parents? Are you still experiencing pain from those past hurts? Perhaps the wrong done to you was so serious that you believe your relationship with them is irreparable. Whatever your situation, there is something that you can do to get on the path to healing…forgive.

Ephesians 4:32 says, “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.” Forgiving a parent who has hurt you could be one of the greatest challenges you ever face. But it could also be the most freeing, leading to the healing and wholeness you so need and want. Refusing to forgive is generally more of a burden to the one who has been hurt than to the one who caused the pain, because unforgiveness often leads to self-destructive behaviors. Additionally, holding on to bitterness and resentment toward your parent(s) may negatively affect the way you parent your own children. Choose to forgive, and begin to find hope and healing in your life and relationships.