Did you know that medical studies now link chronic unforgiveness to serious physical and mental health issues? Bitterness and resentment can increase stress, damage relationships, and even impact your immune system. It’s more toxic than we often realize. For some, it truly becomes a disease of the heart.

Here’s the question: Do you have that disease? If so, you’re not alone—many people silently suffer with unforgiveness.

Jesus knew this would be a major issue in our lives. That’s why He said:

“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.” — Luke 6:37 (NLT)

Here are three reasons we often struggle with unforgiveness and how to overcome it.

1. We Forget – We often forget just how much God has forgiven us. Think about it—God’s grace and mercy toward you has been nothing short of enormous.

Jesus directly links His forgiveness toward us with our forgiveness toward others. When you remember what He’s done for you, it becomes much easier to extend that same grace to someone else.

2. We Feel Powerful – Let’s be honest—sometimes holding a grudge makes us feel superior. We think we’re better, stronger, even holier than the person who hurt us.

But that’s one of the sick deceptions of unforgiveness. The truth? Everyone has missed the mark. We are all in need of God’s grace. True power—God’s power—is found in forgiveness. Weak people hold grudges. Strong people forgive.

3. We Like the Drama – This one’s hard to admit. But for some of us, we’ve grown addicted to the emotional drama that comes with offense.

Jesus said, “It will come back against you.” In other words, drama breeds more drama. It’s the law of sowing and reaping. If you want to reap peace, unity, and grace in your relationships, you have to plant those same seeds.

So what should you do?

Forgiveness isn’t easy, but it’s the road to healing. It’s not always quick, but it is always fruitful.

Unforgiveness is a disease that infects your heart, poisons your relationships, and blocks God’s blessings. But healing is possible—through Christ, forgiveness always wins.

Start today. Choose healing. Choose forgiveness.

Think It Over:

• Who have you been withholding forgiveness from? Ask God to help you forgive as He has forgiven you.
• What relationship needs restoration today? Don’t wait. Take the first step.