Forgiveness: The Barriers to Forgiveness
Introduction
Forgiveness is a foundational element in Christian theology. Christ Himself emphasized the importance of forgiveness through His teachings and the ultimate sacrifice on the cross. Yet, many find it difficult to forgive, sometimes even impossible. This struggle doesn’t emerge out of a vacuum; various barriers, ranging from emotional to practical, often stand in the way. In this detailed discussion, we will explore these barriers to equip Christians with the knowledge to overcome them.
Emotional Barriers
The Weight of Anger and Resentment
Anger is a powerful emotion. When someone has wronged you, the initial and most visceral response is often anger. Over time, if not addressed, this anger festers into resentment, a long-lasting hostility that colors every interaction with the individual in question. This is a massive barrier to forgiveness because resentment does not leave room for empathy or understanding, two crucial components of the forgiveness process. According to Christian teachings, holding onto anger contradicts the call to “be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you” (Ephesians 4:32).
Fear of Emotional Vulnerability
Another emotional roadblock to forgiveness is the fear of becoming vulnerable. If someone has hurt you once, forgiving them might feel like giving them a chance to do it again. This fear is an instinctual protective mechanism. However, it is essential to remember that Christ allowed Himself to be vulnerable to the point of death, as an act of unconditional love and forgiveness for humanity. The New Testament continually reminds Christians to not “let the sun go down on your anger” (Ephesians 4:26), encouraging vulnerability as a path to emotional freedom.
Psychological Barriers
The Role of Ego and Pride
When someone wrongs you, it’s easy for the ego to take over. Your pride tells you that you deserve better and that forgiving the offender would mean admitting defeat or showing weakness. In such cases, pride becomes a psychological obstacle in the pathway to forgiveness. The Bible repeatedly warns against pride, as seen in Proverbs 11:2: “When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with the humble is wisdom.”
Lack of Self-Forgiveness
The forgiveness journey often begins within. If you’re carrying guilt, self-blame, or a sense of unworthiness, you’ll find it almost impossible to extend forgiveness to others. The parable of the unforgiving servant in Matthew 18:21-35 illustrates the significance of first receiving God’s forgiveness before we can forgive others genuinely.
Social and Cultural Barriers
Pressure from Family and Friends
Sometimes, the people around you may discourage you from forgiving. Whether because they share your anger or have their own unresolved issues, they can add a layer of social complexity to an already difficult personal challenge. The Apostle Paul, however, urges us not to “be conformed to this world” (Romans 12:2), emphasizing the need for divine guidance rather than social validation.
Cultural Acceptance of Revenge
In some cultures, vengeance is not just accepted but celebrated. Movies, books, and folktales glorify the avenger and scorn the forgiver. Such a cultural backdrop can serve as a significant barrier to forgiveness. It takes extra effort and a strong Christian conviction to go against the cultural norm and choose the path of forgiveness and reconciliation, just as Christ did.
Practical Barriers
Waiting for an Apology
Often, people withhold forgiveness because they are waiting for an apology that may never come. While an apology might make the process easier, waiting for one can become a never-ending cycle. The Bible teaches that forgiveness is a gift, not just to the offender but also to yourself. It’s a unilateral decision that you can make regardless of the other person’s actions or feelings.
Physical or Emotional Absence of the Offender
Sometimes the person who needs to be forgiven is not available—perhaps they have passed away, or they’re physically distant, or emotionally unreachable. While this poses a practical difficulty, Christian teachings provide a way through prayer. Christ often withdrew to solitary places to pray (Luke 5:16), and in prayer, we can find the strength and peace to forgive those who are not physically present.
Conclusion
Forgiveness is a complex process, fraught with emotional, psychological, social, cultural, and practical barriers. However, the Christian faith offers both the mandate and the model for overcoming these barriers. As Christians, we are called to emulate Christ, who, while nailed to the cross, offered forgiveness to those who persecuted Him. The barriers are real and often challenging, but they are not insurmountable with the guidance of the Holy Spirit and the teachings of the Bible.
Osoria Asibor
The Concept of Forgiveness (Part 1): Psychological Aspects
Understanding the Concept of Forgiveness (Part 2): A Christian Perspective
Forgiveness (Part 3): The Psychological and Health BenefitsÂ