What Does “As We Forgive Our Debtors” Mean?
What does “as we forgive our debtors” mean? The Bible teaches that those who have received God’s forgiveness are called to extend that same grace to others, reflecting the mercy they have been shown in Christ (Matthew 6:12).
This article is part of our Prayer Series: What the Bible Really Says About Prayer, where we are learning to grow in both understanding and practice.
This question builds directly on What Does “Forgive Us Our Debts” Mean?, helping us see how the forgiveness we receive from God should shape how we treat others.
Jesus does something striking—He connects our request for forgiveness to how we forgive others.
This is not meant to confuse us—but to transform us.
The Saying
“Forgiving others isn’t really necessary—it’s a personal choice.”
The Problem
Many people separate their relationship with God from their relationships with others.
They desire forgiveness—but struggle to give it.
But Jesus shows us that these two are closely connected.
Forgiveness is not optional for the believer—it is essential.
What the Bible Actually Says
Matthew 6:12 (ESV)
“And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.”
Matthew 6:14–15 (ESV)
“For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.”
Colossians 3:13 (ESV)
“As the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive.”
These verses show that forgiveness is not just something we receive—it is something we reflect.
The Truth About Forgiving Others
When we pray this phrase, we are acknowledging that God’s grace toward us should shape our attitude toward others.
This does not mean:
- That forgiveness is easy
- That the hurt didn’t matter
- That trust is instantly restored
It means choosing to release the offense and entrust it to God.
Forgiveness is not about denying pain—it is about surrendering it.
And we do this because we have been forgiven much.
When we remember the depth of God’s mercy toward us, it softens our hearts toward others.
Forgiveness becomes not a burden—but a reflection of grace.
And as we forgive, our hearts remain open and free before God.
Living It Out
- Reflect on the forgiveness you have received from God
- Ask God to help you forgive those who have hurt you
- Release bitterness and entrust justice to God
- Allow forgiveness to free your heart, not harden it
Forgiveness is not always easy—but it is always freeing.
And as you extend grace to others, you reflect the heart of the One who has shown grace to you.
A Short Prayer
Father, thank You for the forgiveness You have given me through Christ. Help me to extend that same grace to others, even when it is difficult. Soften my heart and teach me to release what I have been holding onto. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Continue Learning
This article is part of the Daily Diamonds series: Does God Hear Me? What the Bible Really Says About Prayer. Each article builds on the last to help you grow in a clear, biblical understanding of prayer.