The Difficulties of Forgiving and a Practical Path into Choosing Mercy

Angie Allen identifies two primary mental obstacles that prevent people from following the biblical command to forgive others.

According to Allen, the first obstacle is the belief that anger is justified. This can lead people to feel that a priest or Jesus is being unjust by asking them to let go of their resentment, as doing so may feel like it downplays the original offense.

The second obstacle is a perceived unfairness in how God treats Christians. Allen notes that while a person who sins is expected to reflect on their damage, make restitution, and seek forgiveness, they may feel that God's requirements for them are more burdensome than the requirements placed on those who have offended them.