True forgiveness

Jesus taught us to forgive.

Matthew 18:22 NKJV — Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven.

He told a parable about forgiveness.

Matthew 18:22-35

His most incredible truth is He forgave, in the midst of suffering.

Luke 23:34 KJV — Then said Jesus, “Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.” And they parted his raiment, and cast lots.

This true forgiveness didn’t end here.

Acts 7:59-60 NKJV — And they stoned Stephen as he was calling on God and saying, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.”
Then he knelt down and cried out with a loud voice, “Lord, do not charge them with this sin.” And when he had said this, he fell asleep.

Through Jesus, we are forgiven by God of our sin, our wrong, our trespass.

And Jesus showed with His very life we too are to forgive.

In the midst of the suffering, in the middle of the pain, we are to look not at the wrong-doer, but instead at Jesus, the Healer.

It isn’t easy.

It’s not a one time thing.

It is a way of life, a choice, and a beautiful daily gift, from God to us and from us to others.

Dear Lord Jesus,

Thank You for Your Word. Thank You for forgiveness. Lord, please help me to walk with You in all things. Please help me to live in true forgiveness each day. Lord, thank You for Your example in all things.

Luke 11:2-4NKJV — So He said to them, “When you pray, say: Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done On earth as it is in heaven. Give us day by day our daily bread. And forgive us our sins, For we also forgive everyone who is indebted to us. And do not lead us into temptation, But deliver us from the evil one.”

For Thine is the kingdom and the glory forever. Amen.