BIBLE VERSES ABOUT HOLDING GRUDGES

iBible Answer
April 28, 2026
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6 Min Read

Introduction

In every person’s journey of faith, moments come when forgiveness is tested. Someone says or does something that cuts deeply, and a grudge begins to take root. Even believers who sincerely love God can find it difficult to release hurt from their hearts. Holding a grudge may seem like a way to protect oneself, yet it keeps the heart bound and the soul weary. The Word of God has much to say about unforgiveness and bitterness. The Bible clearly teaches that resentment damages our relationship with God and our peace within.

In this article, we will explore Bible verses about holding grudges from the King James Version, understand their meaning, and reflect on how we can apply God’s truth to our everyday lives. Discover how letting go of grudges leads to freedom, healing, and restored fellowship with the Lord.

The Danger of Holding Grudges

Grudges can quietly poison the heart. When resentment is allowed to remain, it can grow into bitterness that steals joy and hinders prayer. The Bible warns us of this spiritual danger in several verses.

Ephesians 4:31-32 (KJV) says, “Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice. And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.”

This passage reveals that bitterness is not merely an emotion, but a spiritual obstacle. It calls believers to replace anger with kindness and forgiveness. We are reminded that forgiveness is not optional for the Christian life. It is commanded because God has already forgiven us.

When we cling to resentment, we allow negative emotions to consume our hearts. This blocks the flow of God’s peace and often brings unnecessary suffering. Choosing forgiveness frees the believer to live in the grace and joy that Christ offers.

Following Jesus’ Example of Forgiveness

Jesus Christ is our perfect example in every situation, including how to respond to those who wrong us. During His time on earth, He faced betrayal, false accusations, and even death at the hands of those He came to save. Yet His response was extraordinary.

Luke 23:34 (KJV) records His words as He hung on the cross, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.”

In that moment, Jesus demonstrated divine love and mercy. He did not seek revenge or hold hatred. He chose forgiveness, showing us what it truly means to release an offense.

When believers hold grudges, they disconnect from the loving nature of Christ. But when they forgive, they align with His character. Choosing to forgive does not deny the pain, but it places that pain in God’s hands, trusting Him for justice and healing.

Forgiving others is not simply about freeing the person who hurt us. It is about freeing ourselves from the burden of bitterness so that we can experience the fullness of God’s love.

Love as the Cure for Resentment

One of the most powerful themes in Scripture is love. Love covers offenses and restores relationships. It is the opposite of holding grudges.

Proverbs 10:12 (KJV) declares, “Hatred stirreth up strifes, but love covereth all sins.”

This verse teaches that grudges create conflict, while love brings peace and harmony. When we allow love to govern our response, we choose the higher way of grace. Love does not ignore injustice but deals with it through compassion and understanding instead of bitterness.

Colossians 3:13-14 (KJV) provides more wisdom on this subject, “Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any, even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness.”

Paul instructs believers to practice forgiveness as a reflection of Christ’s love. Charity, which means love, is the bond that keeps believers united. Holding grudges tears apart this bond. When forgiveness and love work together, the people of God remain strong and unified.

Restoration Through Forgiveness

Forgiveness does not mean that wrong actions are acceptable, nor does it always restore trust instantly. However, forgiveness is the first step toward healing and restoration.

Matthew 6:14-15 (KJV) says, “For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.”

This scripture shows that forgiveness has a direct effect on our relationship with God. Unforgiveness blocks our prayers and our fellowship with Him. The Lord calls His people to forgive freely so that they can live in His continual grace.

When we release grudges, we make room for God to work in our circumstances. He can bring reconciliation, comfort, and wisdom. Sometimes forgiveness is a daily choice, especially when the hurt is deep, but through prayer and the guidance of the Holy Spirit, hearts can be renewed.

How to Let Go of a Grudge

Letting go of resentment requires humility and faith. The process may take time, but it begins with a willing heart. The following spiritual steps can help believers practice forgiveness and live in peace.

Pray for strength – Ask God to soften your heart and give you the grace to forgive. Prayer changes how you view those who hurt you.
Remember God’s mercy – Meditate on how much God has forgiven you. When you grasp His endless mercy, forgiveness becomes easier to extend.
Speak blessings, not bitterness – Choose words that build up rather than words that continue the hurt. The tongue can bring healing when guided by love.
Release the desire for revenge – Trust God to handle justice. Romans 12:19 reminds us that vengeance belongs to the Lord.
Seek peace actively – Romans 12:18 urges believers to live peaceably with all, as much as possible. Do your part to restore unity.

Key Lessons

Holding grudges robs believers of peace and joy.
Forgiveness reflects the mercy God has shown to us.
Jesus’ example teaches that love and prayer overcome resentment.
Letting go of a grudge opens the heart to healing and spiritual freedom.
God calls His children to walk in forgiveness daily, trusting Him for justice.

Conclusion

Holding a grudge might feel justified for a moment, but it never leads to lasting peace. The Bible clearly teaches that bitterness harms the soul and separates believers from the joy of God’s presence. Through Christ, we have been freely forgiven, and we are called to extend that same mercy to others. Every act of forgiveness brings us closer to the heart of God and releases His peace into our lives.

If you are struggling to forgive, remember that God understands your pain and is ready to help you overcome it. Pray for His strength, meditate on His Word, and allow His Spirit to renew your heart. Choose love over resentment and grace over revenge. When you let go of grudges, you make room for God’s healing power and His perfect peace.