FEAR2FREEDOM

When Peter asked Jesus,
“Lord, how many times should I forgive? Up to seven times?”
Jesus answered, “Not seven times, but seventy-seven times” (often taught as 7 × 70).

This wasn’t a math problem.
It was a heart posture.

In the Bible (Matthew 18:21–22), Jesus wasn’t asking us to keep count.
He was dismantling the idea that forgiveness has a limit.

7 × 70 = forgiveness without a finish line.

Not because the offense doesn’t matter.
Not because the wound wasn’t real.
But because unforgiveness keeps us chained to what hurt us.

What 7 × 70 is not

• ❌ It is not excusing harm
• ❌ It is not pretending it didn’t hurt
• ❌ It is not reconciliation without safety or boundaries

What 7 × 70 is

• ✔️ Releasing yourself from carrying the weight
• ✔️ Choosing freedom again… and again… and again
• ✔️ A process, not a moment
• ✔️ Sometimes forgiving the same wound every time it resurfaces

Forgiveness is rarely a one-time decision.
It’s often a daily surrender.

A Fear2Freedom lens

Forgiveness doesn’t erase the scar.
It loosens the chain.

Sometimes the bravest act of forgiveness
isn’t toward the person who hurt you—
but toward yourself
for surviving the way you did.

7 × 70 is not about perfection.
It’s about persistence.

Each time bitterness tries to return,
you choose freedom again.

Reflection question:
Where might God be inviting you to forgive one more time—
not to minimize the pain,
but to reclaim your peace?