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What does the Bible say about forgiving yourself?

Bible Topic · WEB

The Bible teaches that peace about past sin comes not from excusing ourselves, but from trusting God’s full forgiveness in Christ and living in repentance and faith. First John 1:9 promises that God forgives and cleanses those who confess, while Acts 3:19 calls believers to turn to Him for sins to be blotted out. In Christ, we are a new creation, reconciled to God by His grace (2 Corinthians 5:17-18). We should therefore cast lingering guilt on the Lord (1 Peter 5:7), put away sinful patterns (Colossians 3:8), and set our minds on what is true and worthy (Philippians 4:8). Having received mercy, Christians also forgive others (Ephesians 4:32).

Top passages, ranked by readers

Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible

  • 1 John 1:9

    If we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous to forgive us the sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

  • 1 Peter 5:7

    casting all your worries on him, because he cares for you.

  • Ephesians 4:32

    And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving each other, just as God also in Christ forgave you.

  • Mark 11:25

    Whenever you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against anyone; so that your Father, who is in heaven, may also forgive you your transgressions.

  • 2 Corinthians 5:17-18

    [17] Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old things have passed away. Behold, all things have become new. [18] But all things are of God, who reconciled us to himself through Jesus Christ, and gave to us the ministry of reconciliation;

  • Luke 17:3-4

    [3] Be careful. If your brother sins against you, rebuke him. If he repents, forgive him. [4] If he sins against you seven times in the day, and seven times returns, saying, 'I repent,' you shall forgive him."

  • Acts 3:19

    "Repent therefore, and turn again, that your sins may be blotted out, so that there may come times of refreshing from the presence of the Lord,

  • Matthew 6:14-15

    [14] "For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. [15] But if you don't forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.

  • Colossians 3:8

    but now you also put them all away: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and shameful speaking out of your mouth.

  • Philippians 4:8

    Finally, brothers, whatever things are true, whatever things are honorable, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report; if there is any virtue, and if there is any praise, think about these things.

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