How to Forgive Someone Who Doesn’t Apologize

Forgiveness is one of the hardest things a Christian can do—especially when the other person never says “sorry.” Many people carry pain for years because they’re waiting for an apology that may never come.

But here’s the truth: God calls us to forgive for our own healing, not because the other person deserves it. That kind of radical forgiveness is what sets believers apart—and it starts in the heart, not with the other person’s apology.

  • Why Forgiveness Is So Hard
    * The hurt feels unfair and unresolved.
  • * The offender may act like nothing happened.
  • * You feel like forgiving means they “got away with it.

”But forgiveness is not approval of the wrong—it’s releasing yourself from the bondage of bitterness.

What the Bible Says

Ephesians 4:31–32 (NIV)

“Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger… Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”

Jesus didn’t wait for us to say “sorry” before dying for our sins. He forgave first.That’s the example we’re called to follow.

Matthew 6:14–15 (NIV)

“For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.”

How to Forgive Without an Apology

1. Be Honest With God About the Pain

Don’t fake it. Tell God exactly how it hurt and ask Him to help you release the bitterness.

Psalm 34:18 – “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted…”

2. Choose to Forgive As an Act of Obedience

Forgiveness is not a feeling—it’s a decision. Sometimes your heart will catch up after your will leads the way.

Colossians 3:13 – “Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”

3. Pray for the Person Who Hurt You

This is tough, but Jesus said:

Matthew 5:44 – “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”

It doesn’t mean you trust them again, but it releases them from your judgment and invites God’s healing.

4. Set Healthy Boundaries

Forgiving someone doesn’t always mean reconciling. You can forgive and still protect your heart from future harm.

Have you found yourself in this situation? How did you manage it?“Have you ever forgiven someone who never said sorry? What helped you do it—or what’s still holding you back?”

Rely on Jesus

Forgiving someone who never apologizes is one of the most Christ-like things you can do. It breaks cycles of pain and brings you freedom—even when the wound is still healing. You don’t need their apology to let go.

You just need Jesus.

Comment ‘I FORGIVE YOU TODAY ‘

mwabaya
mwabayahttps://www.ujeri.com
I write and answer life’s toughest questions through the lens of Scripture—helping others find real, biblical truth for real-life struggles. Am on a mission to establishing 'Ujeri Ministry'
mwabaya
I write and answer life’s toughest questions through the lens of Scripture—helping others find real, biblical truth for real-life struggles. Am on a mission to establishing 'Ujeri Ministry'

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