Start Your Year on Sure Footing, Gospel of Matthew, Day 36 of 58
Reading
Matthew 18:21-35
https://bible.oremus.org/?ql=511293470
Scripture
35 So my heavenly Father will also do to every one of you, if you do not forgive your brother or sister from your heart.’
Observation
God does not rank sins as much as our human justice system does. All sin is an offense against the holiness of God. But you know, the paradox of God is that God’s love is so great he conquered sin and death for even the “vilest offender” as the famous hymn reminds us:
“Oh, perfect redemption, the purchase of blood,
To every believer the promise of God;
The vilest offender who truly believes,
That moment from Jesus a pardon receives.”
- “To God Be the Glory”
Yet, here’s the thing. A lack of forgiveness slams shut the window of heaven. A total lack of forgiveness screams in God’s face, “I don’t want to live by your grace, or offer it to others. I want to lay down the law.” God’s response is “Live by the Law, die by the law” (see Galatians 2:21)
Application
Who do I need to forgive this week. I am going to write them a note or pray a prayer for them.
Prayer
Father, we thank You for Your love towards us. We thank You that in the midst of life challenges and difficulties, we have a loving Father that demonstrates total humility by asking, “what do you want me to do for you?” Lord, you show mercy on me, so we need to show mercy to others. We ask that despite our circumstances, challenges and situations, like Bartimaeus we declare and believe by the power of the Holy Spirit that our and others needs will be met, according to Your will and purpose. We pray in Jesus Name, Amen. (Prayer from prayray.com [1])