They say that “time heals all wounds.” It doesn’t. Rather, forgiveness heals all wounds—not a hurried, impulsive, uncalculated forgiveness, but a patient, well thought out, measured forgiveness, given only when ready. When we rush to forgive, maybe that forgiveness is more a cover up than the real thing; when we postpone forgiving—beyond its time—it distills into bitterness, resentment, anger and depression. Yet, true forgiveness is born out of the One who “loved us and gave Himself for us.” Before the cross God’s forgiveness had to be seemingly bought by forgiving others. At the cross Jesus said, “Father, forgive them for they know not what they do,” and then bowing his head he gave up his spirit. After the cross he beckons us to forgive because he’s already forgiven us all things. We are now free to forgive—not an extorted forgiveness—but a patient, well thought out, measured forgiveness. They say that “time heals all wounds.” No, the One—who has forgiven us all things—heals all wounds.

“Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you.” Ephesians 4:32 NASB

“When you were dead in your sins and in the uncircumcision of your sinful nature, God made you alive with Christ. He forgave us all our sins, having canceled the written code, with its regulations, that was against us and that stood opposed to us; he took it away, nailing it to the cross.” Colossians 2:13-14 NIV

“Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” Colossians 3:12-13 NIV

“I am writing to you, little children, because your sins have been forgiven you for His name's sake.” 1 John 2:12 NASB