Forgiveness Prayers

We are imperfect people who make mistakes. Some of those mistakes offend God. Sometimes we offend others, and at times we are the ones offended or hurt. Forgiveness is something Jesus spoke quite a bit about, and he is always willing to forgive. We need to find that in our hearts sometimes, too. So here are some forgiveness prayers that may help you find the forgiveness you or others need.

When You Need God's Forgiveness

Lord, please forgive me for what I have done to you. I offer up this forgiveness prayer in hopes that you will look at my mistakes and know that I did not mean to hurt you. I know you know I'm not perfect. I know that what I did went against you, but I hope that you will forgive me, just as you forgive others like me.

I will try, Lord, to change. I will make every attempt to not give into temptation again. I know that you are the most important thing in my life, Lord, and I know that what I did was disappointing.

I ask, God, that you provide me with guidance in the future. I ask for the discerning ear and open heart to hear and feel what you are telling me to do. I pray that I will have the understanding to remember this time and that you give me the strength to go in a different direction.

Lord, thank you for all you do for me. I pray that you pour your grace upon me.

In your name, Amen.

When You Need Forgiveness From Others

Lord, today was not a good day for how I treated others. I know I need to apologize. I know that I did that person wrong. I have no excuse for my bad behavior. I have no good reason for harming (him or her). I pray that you place forgiveness on (his or her) heart.

Mostly, though, I pray that you give (him or her) peace for when I do apologize. I pray that I can make the situation right and that I don't give the impression that this is normal behavior for people who love you, Lord. I know you ask that our behavior is a light unto others, and my behavior certainly was not.

Lord, I ask that you give us both the strength to get through this situation and come out the other side better and more in love with you than before.

In your name, Amen.

When You Need to Forgive Someone Who Hurt You

Lord, I am angry. I am hurt. This person did something to me, and I cannot imagine why. I feel so betrayed, and I know you say that I should forgive (him or her), but I don't know how. I just don't know how to get over these emotions. How do you do it? How do you constantly forgive us when we screw up and hurt you?

Lord, I ask that you give me the strength to forgive. I ask that you place on my heart a spirit of forgiveness. I know this person said (he or she) was sorry. (He or she) knows what happened was wrong. I may never forget what (he or she) did and I'm sure our relationship will never be the same, but I don't want to live with this burden of anger and hatred any longer.

Lord, I want to forgive. Please, Lord, help my heart and mind embrace it.

In your name, Amen.

More Prayers for Everyday Life

Other tough times in your life lead you to turn to prayer, such as when you're facing temptation, needing to overcome hate, or wishing to remain abstinent.

Happy times can bring us to express joy through prayer as well, such as occasions when we want to honor our mom.