Matthew 6:14-15
“For if you forgive others their trespasses, your Heavenly FATHER will also forgive you, but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your FATHER forgive your trespasses."
Right after teaching His disciples the LORD’s prayer, JESUS emphasized the importance of forgiveness.
This prayer pattern taught by CHRIST, reminds us that there’s a way for us not to be bound with the ill effects of an unforgiving spirit. It also asks the FATHER for help in releasing grudges, trusting Him with justice and healing, and choosing grace.
Forgiveness is not about minimizing the hurt, but about refusing to let the debt of the offense to control and rule us. It's about releasing the desire for revenge. When we hold onto grudges, we prevent GOD’s grace from flowing freely in our lives. At the cross, JESUS asks the FATHER to “forgive them…”—His Words have the power to release sinners from their bondage, and opens the way for grace to work in and through us. Let us refuse to be a dead-end for grace. May we open our hearts, release the debts we’ve been carrying and choose the freedom of forgiveness.
Prayer:
ABBA FATHER, thank You for forgiving me. I release the debts I've held, and trust You with justice and my healing.
I ask that You give me wisdom for boundaries and the courage to choose grace again today. In JESUS' Amazing Name, Amen.