Forgiveness

Thanks to the Atonement of Jesus Christ, each of us can be forgiven of our mistakes, sins, and wrongdoings. This assurance of forgiveness brings not only peace of mind to those struggling with guilt, but also the promise that we can be clean and prepared to return to our heavenly home, live eternally with our Heavenly Parents as well as our earthly families, and eventually become like God. Forgiveness is a companion principle to repentance. God has promised, “He who has repented of his sins, the same is forgiven, and I, the Lord, remember them no more” (D&C 58:42). Christ has already paid the price for our sins, but He will not coerce us to accept that sacrifice. Through sincere repentance, we can obtain forgiveness. Along with the promise that we can be forgiven of our sins comes a commandment that we must forgive others of their wrongdoings. Though it can be difficult to do, forgiving those who have hurt us frees us from the bitterness and weight of grudges and vengefulness. It allows us to heal and move forward. Here, too, Christ’s atonement is key—He provides not only the spiritual strength to forgive, but also the resultant healing. Letting go of the need to judge others, we can trust God to be our judge as He perfectly knows our hearts and intentions. These speeches implore readers and listeners to understand the importance and power of forgiveness. Born of scriptural study, personal experience, and at times even academic research, the guidance they offer is applicable both to obtaining forgiveness and to extending it. Along with that guidance, these speakers bear testimony of the blessings that will come into our hearts and homes as a result of forgiveness.