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Letting Go of Resentment: A Lesson from the Prodigal Son

Writer's picture: Lady MelissaLady Melissa

Resentment is a heavy burden to carry. Whether it’s anger toward someone else or unresolved guilt within ourselves, holding onto resentment can keep us from living fully and freely.


The story of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11–32) teaches us about forgiveness—both receiving it and extending it. It reminds us that letting go of resentment isn’t just about others; it’s a gift we give ourselves to create space for healing and peace.


The Weight of Resentment


In the parable, a father has two sons. The younger son demands his inheritance early, leaves home, and squanders his wealth on reckless living. When he finds himself broke, alone, and starving, he decides to return home and ask for forgiveness.


The father, filled with compassion, doesn’t hold resentment for his son’s mistakes. Instead, he welcomes him back with open arms, celebrating his return.


But the elder son struggles with resentment. He feels overlooked and unappreciated, angry that his father would celebrate the younger brother’s return after all he had done wrong.


This story reflects how resentment can weigh us down. Whether it’s the guilt of our own mistakes or anger toward someone who’s hurt us, holding onto resentment keeps us from experiencing joy, peace, and reconciliation.


Identifying Resentment in Your Life


Resentment often feels justified—it’s easy to think, They don’t deserve forgiveness, or I can’t let this go. But in reality, resentment hurts us far more than it does anyone else.


Take a moment to reflect:

Am I holding onto resentment toward someone else?

Do I feel guilt or shame about something I’ve done?

How is this resentment affecting my emotional well-being?


Acknowledging these feelings is the first step to releasing them.


The Power of Forgiveness


The father in the parable shows us what forgiveness looks like—an open heart and a willingness to move forward without holding onto the past. But forgiveness doesn’t mean ignoring hurt or excusing wrongdoing. It’s about choosing to let go of the anger, bitterness, or guilt that keeps us stuck.


Here’s how you can begin to let go of resentment:

• Write a letter of forgiveness—either to someone who’s hurt you or to yourself. You don’t have to send it; the act of writing helps release those feelings.

• Reflect on how holding onto resentment has affected your life.

• Practice self-compassion, reminding yourself that everyone makes mistakes, and growth comes from letting go.


Forgiveness is a process, not a one-time act. It takes intention and effort, but it’s a step toward freedom.


Facing Challenges to Forgiveness


Like the elder brother in the story, we often struggle to let go of resentment. It can feel unfair to forgive someone who’s hurt us or to forgive ourselves for mistakes we deeply regret.


But as the father reminds his elder son, forgiveness isn’t about fairness—it’s about love and grace. By letting go, we free ourselves from the weight of anger and guilt, opening the door to peace and healing.


The Peace of Letting Go


By the end of the parable, the father’s joy stands in contrast to the elder son’s resentment. The father celebrates life, love, and reconciliation, while the elder son remains trapped in his bitterness.


This story reminds us that forgiveness isn’t just for others—it’s for ourselves. Letting go of resentment creates space for joy, connection, and a lighter heart.

A serene image of an open hand releasing a small bird into the air, with a glowing sunrise in the background, symbolizing freedom, peace, and healing.
An open hand releasing a bird into the sunrise—a symbol of the peace that comes from letting go.

Final Thoughts


Resentment can keep us locked in the past, but forgiveness sets us free. Whether it’s forgiving someone else or forgiving yourself, the act of letting go is one of the most powerful gifts you can give.


Reflection Question: What resentment are you ready to release? How will letting go create space for peace and healing in your life?

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