Why is forgiveness important for Christians according to the Bible?

Forgiveness is crucial for Christians as it not only embodies the grace we have received from God but also restores our relationships with others. In Matthew 5:23-24, Jesus instructs that reconciliation with a brother must take precedence, suggesting that before approaching God, one must first address any grievances with others. This underscores that the act of forgiveness is not merely a suggestion but a command that aligns with the heart of the gospel, which calls us to love and value others as ourselves, directly linking it to our own experience of grace.