10 Verses For When You Struggle with Apologizing

Do you find it difficult to say, “I am sorry”?

Do you struggle to apologize for mistakes or wrongs you have done?

Sometimes it’s hard to admit our wrongdoings to someone we upset or offended. It’s not usually easy to look someone in the eyes and offer a sincere apology. However, saying you are sorry when needed, is so vital in maintaining and/or restoring relationships.

God’s Word brings freedom- He has the power to help you humble yourself and seek peace with others so that you can walk in obedience to Him.

Let’s take a look together at what His Word says.

Here’s 10 Verses for When You Struggle with Apologizing-

1. First, confess your sins to God- He is there and will always forgive you of your sins.

For I know my transgressions, and my sin is ever before me. ~Psalm 51:3

2. You might feel that you did nothing wrong- but if you take your eyes off of yourself, you might be able to see where you contributed to the conflict, even if it’s a small amount.

Jesus said to all, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.” ~Luke 9:23

3. It takes two to reconcile. There might be a chance where your apology might not be accepted by the other person- but this should not keep you from going to them and acknowledging your wrong.

So if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift. ~Matthew 5:23-24

4. Be humble- do not allow pride or stubbornness to keep you from doing what is right.

Have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind. Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing. ~1 Peter 3:8-9

5. Seek peace- and be sincere. Apologize and make things right.

So then let us pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding. ~Romans 14:19

6. Never ruin an apology with an excuse.

The heart of the righteous ponders how to answer, but the mouth of the wicked pours out evil things. ~Proverbs 15:28

7. There might be times when you owe an apology- and you might need to extend forgiveness as well. Moving on is an ongoing process.  When we see this person’s face, we may struggle again to forgive – we may have to continue to forgive over and over and over.

Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you. ~Ephesians 4:32

8. Plan out what you’re going to say beforehand- this might help you avoid adding more strife to the situation.

A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.  ~Proverbs 15:1

9. Try to avoid controversial conversations so that you won’t have to go back and apologize later.

But avoid foolish controversies, genealogies, dissensions, and quarrels about the law, for they are unprofitable and worthless. ~Titus 3:9

10. It’s natural to want to defend yourself or get your point across- but you need to ask yourself if you’re being selfish, irritable, envious, etc. Examine your heart and make sure you are extending love.

Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful. ~1 Corinthians 13:4-5

Do not allow bitterness to grow in your heart, or your ego to get the best of you. It can be easy to shift blame, which allows you to not focus on how you contributed to the situation. If you wronged someone, humble yourself and take responsibility for your role.

It’s also important that your apology comes from a sincere heart- and not just something you say because that’s what you’re supposed to do. Most people can sense if your apology is sincere or not.

You don’t “win” or “lose” after an apology. Apologizing shows humility and kindness. Ask God for his strength and wisdom in this area- He wants to give you guidance and direction.

Keep walking with the King!

Do you want to print these verses? Click here to open the free printable.

If you’re looking to study this topic further, I would recommend the Rest and Release Bible study. I pray that your time spent in God’s Word will lead you to resting and releasing all of your burdens, so you can live a life of peace and freedom in Christ –no matter what you are facing.

To find all the free Bible Study Resources for
Rest and Release- along with a free video series —–> CLICK HERE!