This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother or sister from your heart.
Matthew 18:35 NIV
This verse comes at the end of Jesus’ parable of the unmerciful servant. This servant had been forgiven an outstanding debt but was unwilling to forgive another servant who owed him a much lesser amount. Consequently, the master of the two servants revoked his forgiveness of the unmerciful servant who was himself unwilling to forgive others.
How important is it that I forgive others? I do believe we need to take Jesus’ words here very seriously. Forgiveness is not an optional activity on my part. If I am unwilling to forgive the offenses of people around me, especially other believers, I should not expect God to forgive the great debt I owe him.
Forgive your brothers or sisters who have hurt or wronged you. Not just when they ask for forgiveness. But even when they persist in their actions that are hurting or offending you. Indeed, that is hard to do. But it is the way of love we have been called to live.
Fortunately, we do not have to do this on our own. We have God’s Spirit to help us.
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Jesus calls on me to love my enemies. To do good to them. This is hard. Yet I don’t see it as being a suggestion for advanced disciples only.
Interact with those living in darkness in a way that would open their eyes to the light. Let the light of Christ shine out to them.
Why did God require the shedding of blood in order to forgive sins? Was it a requirement of his nature? Or the way that he chose?
If a brother or sister in Christ has something against you, whether real or imagined, you should seek reconciliation with them.
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Just an old clay jar that God continues to see fit to use in his kingdom's work. I am retired, married with 2 children, and 4 grandchildren. I have followed Jesus for many years. And I love to share what He has given me from His word.
A Note to Readers
The views expressed here are solely mine and do not necessarily reflect those of any other person, group, or organization. While I believe they reflect the teachings of the Bible, I am a fallible human and subject to misunderstanding. Please feel free to leave any comments or questions about this post in the comments section below. I am always interested in your feedback.
