I have asked God to forgive me, but how do I forgive myself?

I have many regrets, but my greatest is the loss of my marriage and family because of my poor choices, I’ve asked God to forgive me, but how do I forgive myself?

I want to speak to you sincerely and directly. I understand what you’re struggling with. You feel a great sense of regret over all this, and that is valid. But I want to remind you that it’s not within your power to forgive yourself. Rather, it’s God who forgives. Do you remember the incident in Mark 2:3-12 where Jesus had a paralytic lowered before Him, and before He healed him, He said, “Your sins are forgiven you.” That statement outraged the religious leaders who were present, and they said, “Who can forgive sins but God alone?” That’s a true principle.

Now, Jesus could forgive the man’s sins because He was God. But the principle is true. No one can forgive sins but God alone. You can be free of needing to grant forgiveness to yourself and simply believe and receive the forgiveness that God has given to you freely in Jesus Christ. Don’t wait for a feeling of forgiveness. You can decide, “The Bible says I am forgiven, so I’m going to live that way. I’m going to establish my heart in that truth.” That is a glorious way to live.

Free yourself from the burden of needing to forgive yourself. Focus on the forgiveness that’s been given to you freely in Jesus Christ. You’ve repented of your sin. You believe on Him, you’re sorry about it, and your life has turned in a different direction. God has forgiven you. Believe it and walk in that forgiveness.