Question:  Dear Greg,

            What is involved in forgiveness?  Is it enough that you don’t wish the other person ill and don’t expect reparation even though you still feel hurt about what happened?  Do you think hurt feelings indicate a lack of forgiveness?  I was just wondering what you thoughts were on the subject.

            Thanks,

            Don

Answer:  Dear Don,

            True, complete and total forgiveness can only be found in and through God—humans do not have the innate ability to forgive.  Only God can empower us to truly forgive, for such forgiveness involves his love.  We can forgive to a certain degree, depending upon a number of issues.  We have a free booklet on forgiveness.  If you live in the U.S. or Canada we will be happy to send you a free copy if you provide a postal address to which we may send it.

            In Christ,

            Greg Albrecht