Forgiveness is not optional. It is the price of admission into the Kingdom. Forgiveness was the ransom paid and the currency of a converted heart. You must forgive, because through the path of forgiveness you were restored.
You have a right to hold onto pain, but it is permissive and not expedient. I will and can honor your choice, but I am asking you to choose MY will over yours, choose MY Grace over a legitimate grievance.
The society in which you live is 2nd class, to the society, I have in the Heavenly realms. MY kingdom is built on forgiveness and I, the maker of all things search high & low to give second chances.
Can you forgive them, as I have forgiven you? Can you forgive them, not because they deserve it, but because it is your purpose? That which you are willing release in this realm, will be rewarded in the next.
Luke 6:32-36
“If you love those who love you, what benefit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them. And if you do good to those who do good to you, what benefit is that to you? For even sinners do the same. And if you lend to those from whom you expect to receive, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners, to get back the same amount. But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return, and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, for he is kind to the ungrateful and the evil. Be merciful, even as your Father is merciful.
I Might Be a Prophet 