The Freedom of Forgiveness: What Erika Kirk Teaches Us
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When the world heard Erika Kirk forgive the man who assassinated her husband, Charlie, many of us stopped in our tracks. How can someone walk through such unimaginable pain and still choose forgiveness?
As wives, mothers, and women of faith, her response is a reminder of a truth we often forget: forgiveness is not weakness — it is power.
Forgiveness is a Reflection of God's Heart
Jesus’ words in Matthew 6:14–15 couldn’t be clearer: “For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.”
When Erika extended forgiveness, she wasn’t excusing the evil that was done. She was aligning her heart with God’s. True forgiveness doesn’t diminish justice — it reflects the mercy we ourselves have been shown.
And I’ll be honest — when I first heard her words, it stirred something in me. I couldn’t help but think of the small grudges I hold on to: the sharp word from a loved one, the hurtful thing someone said years ago. Compared to Erika’s situation, my hurts feel so much smaller — and yet, how often do I let them harden my heart?
Forgiveness Break Generational Chains
As mothers, we often think about the legacy we’re leaving our children. Bitterness can be passed down like an heirloom if we’re not careful. But so can forgiveness.
In choosing forgiveness, Erika modeled what Paul wrote in Romans 12:21: “Do not be overcome by evil but overcome evil with good.” Her children — and all of us watching — saw the power of overcoming darkness by choosing the light.
For me, that hit hard. I want my kids to see me as a mum who’s quick to forgive, not quick to stew in anger. I don’t want them to inherit my grudges. I want them to inherit freedom.
Forgiveness Frees the One Who Forgives
Carrying unforgiveness is like walking through life with a weight strapped to your back. Jesus knew this, which is why He said in Matthew 11:28: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
When we forgive, we set the other person free in our hearts — but even more than that, we set ourselves free.
I think about how many times I’ve gone to bed replaying conversations or wishing I’d said something different. And yet, forgiveness is what lifts the burden and lets me rest. Watching Erika’s testimony reminded me that the deepest freedom doesn’t come from “winning” or holding on — it comes from releasing it into God’s hands.
A Wife and Mother's Perspective
Forgiveness is not easy — especially when the hurt runs deep. Whether it’s betrayal in marriage, harsh words spoken at home, or disappointment with those closest to us, choosing to forgive feels almost impossible.
But here’s the gentle reminder: you don’t have to forgive in your own strength. The same Spirit that enabled Erika to forgive in such a radical moment is the same Spirit that empowers us to forgive in the small, daily moments too.
Final Encouragement
Forgiveness doesn’t mean forgetting. It doesn’t mean there are no consequences. But it does mean choosing freedom, peace, and alignment with the heart of God.
As wives and mothers, may we carry this truth into our homes: our children don’t just need to hear about forgiveness — they need to see us live it.
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