Forgiveness is a Family Value: Teaching Kids to Give and Receive Grace

Ephesians 4:32 (ESV), Matthew 6:14–15 (NIV), Colossians 3:13 (NASB)

Introduction: The Heart of Grace at Home

Every family faces moments of conflict—hurts, misunderstandings, and disappointments are inevitable when imperfect people live closely together. But the gospel gives every Christian home a powerful gift: forgiveness. Forgiveness is not just a virtue to aspire to, but a family value to be lived and modeled every day. It is the heart of grace—giving and receiving undeserved kindness—at the very center of what it means to follow Jesus together.

Teaching children to forgive and seek forgiveness is foundational for lifelong relationships, emotional health, and spiritual growth. It helps them understand God’s forgiveness for them and equips them to extend grace to others. When forgiveness becomes part of the family DNA, homes become places of safety, healing, and lasting love.

In this devotional, we’ll explore “Forgiveness is a Family Value: Teaching Kids to Give and Receive Grace” through Ephesians 4:32, Matthew 6:14–15, and Colossians 3:13. These passages invite us to embody forgiveness in daily life, to teach and model it to our children, and to reflect God’s grace in every relationship at home.

Forgive as God Forgave You—Ephesians 4:32

Paul calls believers to kindness and grace:

“Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:32, ESV)

Forgiveness begins with God. Because we have been forgiven much by Christ—freely, fully, and undeservedly—we are called to extend that same forgiveness to others. At home, this means modeling kindness, quick repentance, and a readiness to forgive, even when it’s hard. Children learn grace best when they see it in action.

Let your home be a place where “I’m sorry” and “I forgive you” are spoken often and sincerely.

Forgive, and You Will Be Forgiven—Matthew 6:14–15

Jesus makes forgiveness a central part of our faith:

“For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.” (Matthew 6:14–15, NIV)

Jesus ties our willingness to forgive others to our experience of God’s forgiveness. Forgiveness is not optional for disciples of Jesus—it is essential. Teaching our kids to forgive is not just about resolving conflict, but about following Jesus and experiencing the freedom of grace.


Bearing With and Forgiving Each Other—Colossians 3:13

Paul exhorts believers to patience and mutual grace:

“Bear with one another, and forgive each other, whoever has a complaint against anyone; just as the Lord forgave you, so also should you.” (Colossians 3:13, NASB)

Forgiveness is a daily, often repeated act. Paul reminds us that “bearing with” means putting up with each other’s flaws, while “forgiving” means letting go of grudges and choosing love over resentment. The standard is high: “just as the Lord forgave you.”

In your family, encourage both giving and receiving forgiveness—teaching your kids to apologize when they are wrong and to forgive when they are hurt.

Building a Culture of Forgiveness at Home

How can you make forgiveness a living value in your family?

  • Model It First: Let your kids see you apologize and seek forgiveness when you’re wrong. Show them what humility and grace look like.
  • Teach the Why: Explain that we forgive because God forgave us, and because holding onto hurt only brings more pain.
  • Practice Regularly: Make it normal to ask for and offer forgiveness after arguments or mistakes. Don’t let offenses linger.
  • Encourage Honest Conversation: Create a safe space for kids to express hurt, anger, or disappointment—then guide them toward healing through grace.
  • Reinforce With Scripture and Prayer: Memorize verses about forgiveness and pray together for hearts that are quick to forgive.
  • Celebrate Reconciliation: When forgiveness is sought and given, affirm your kids and celebrate the restoration of relationship.

The Blessing and Witness of a Forgiving Family

A family marked by forgiveness is a place of freedom, safety, and deep love. It’s also a powerful witness to friends, neighbors, and the wider world—showing that the grace of Jesus is real and transformative. Children who grow up in a forgiving home are equipped to build healthy relationships and to share God’s love wherever they go.

Reflection Questions

  • How well is forgiveness practiced and modeled in your home? Are there changes you need to make as parents or family members?
  • Are there unresolved hurts in your family that need to be addressed and healed through forgiveness?
  • How can you teach your children the “why” behind forgiveness in a way they can understand?
  • Are you quick to apologize and quick to forgive, or do you tend to hold onto hurt?
  • Who can you encourage or mentor in the area of grace and forgiveness?

Practical Application

This week, meditate on Ephesians 4:32, Matthew 6:14–15, and Colossians 3:13. As a family, talk about what forgiveness means and why it matters.

Practice apologizing and forgiving quickly after conflicts. Pray together, asking God for soft hearts and the ability to give and receive grace.

Memorize Ephesians 4:32 as a family, and talk about real-life situations where it can be applied.

If there is a lingering hurt or grudge, take the first step toward reconciliation—whether it’s a conversation, a note, or a prayer.

Summary

Forgiveness is at the core of a Christ-centered family. As we model and teach grace—quickly apologizing, forgiving, and bearing with one another—we create a home where love flourishes and God’s presence is felt. A forgiving family reflects the heart of Jesus and prepares children to extend His grace to a hurting world. May we be families where forgiveness is not just taught, but lived every day.