How Do I Ask for Forgiveness?

We've all experienced that sinking feeling when we realize we've hurt someone we care about. This message tackles one of the most challenging aspects of forgiveness: what to do when we're the ones who messed up. Drawing from Colossians 3, we're reminded that in the body of Christ, unresolved conflict doesn't just damage relationships—it grieves God's heart and undermines our witness. The central truth is profound yet simple: when we're the offender, forgiveness and reconciliation don't start with others—they start with us. We learn that genuine restoration requires brutal honesty with ourselves first, because we'll never be honest with others if we can't be honest with ourselves. The message walks us through practical steps including confessing without waiting to be caught, apologizing with three essential components (I'm sorry, I was wrong, what can I do to make it right?), and avoiding the trap of excuses that invalidate our apologies. Perhaps most challenging is understanding that forgiveness is both an event and a process—the person we've hurt may need to forgive us repeatedly as they heal. This isn't about them being difficult; it's about honoring the depth of pain we've caused. When we pursue reconciliation with others, we simultaneously restore our relationship with God, leading to spiritual growth and the inner peace we desperately need.