Forgiveness in Dating: The Hardest and Purest Form of LoveSample

Day 5: Pray for Strength to Forgive

Forgiveness is one of the hardest things you’ll do in a relationship. Sometimes the pain cuts so deep that forgiving feels impossible — and in your own strength, it might just be. That’s why forgiveness isn’t something you’re meant to handle alone. It requires the help of the One who forgave us completely, even when we didn’t deserve it.

When someone you care deeply about hurts you, the emotional weight can linger. Maybe it’s a sharp memory replaying in your mind or a heaviness in your chest that won’t lift. You might even tell yourself, “I need to forgive them,” but the words feel hollow because your heart isn’t there yet. That’s okay. Forgiveness isn’t about pretending the hurt isn’t real. It’s about inviting Jesus to step into your pain and help you release it.

The best place to start? In prayer. Begin by telling Jesus exactly how you feel. He already knows, but when you open your heart to Him, you give Him space to work through your pain. “Jesus, I’m struggling to forgive. This hurt feels too big for me. Please meet me here and help me find the strength to forgive as You forgive.” Honest prayers like that are powerful because they remind you that forgiveness is only possible through His strength, not your own.

Philippians 4 promises us that we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us. That includes forgiving others, even when it feels impossible. It may not happen in an instant — some wounds take time to heal, and that’s okay. But as you continue to pray and lean into His grace, He will begin to soften the hardened places in your heart. He will give you the peace to release bitterness and make room for His love to flow in its place.

Forgiveness isn’t about excusing the hurt or automatically restoring trust. It’s about unburdening your soul by letting go of resentment, no matter how justified it feels. Trust that He sees your pain, and He’s working for your healing. If forgiving feels overwhelming, take it one prayer at a time, asking Him to guide you step by step.

When forgiveness feels far away, remember how Jesus forgives you. He doesn’t wait for you to earn it or deserve it. He gives it freely and fully. And in the same way, He’ll empower you to extend that kind of grace to others. When you can’t muster the strength on your own, He’ll supply it. Keep inviting Him into your heart, your hurt, and even your hesitation. His power works best in our weakness.

Forgiveness can be a struggle, but it’s never a battle you face alone. Trust Jesus to lead you toward the peace and healing only He can provide. With Him, forgiveness becomes less about what you can do on your own and more about what He can do through you. Step into that truth and experience the freedom, love, and hope He’s waiting to pour into your heart.

We invite you to join us on Upward if you are a Christian single looking for a meaningful relationship.