Words of Encouragement
November - 28 - 2004
We must forgive others! To me, this is one of the most challenging reminders of God's will in Scripture. When we refuse, it cuts us off the stream of forgiveness that God so longs to give to us. While forgiving others is never easy, God has not only commanded us to do it, he has also given us his Son as an example of forgiveness. In addition, he has promised to empower us to be able to do his will by the power of the Holy Spirit. The real issue: Will we let go of our bitterness toward those who have wounded us?
The Scripture reading is from Mark 11:25-26.
25 "And whenever you stand praying, if you have anything against anyone, forgive him, that your Father in heaven may also forgive you your trespasses.
26 But if you do not forgive, neither will your Father in heaven forgive your trespasses."
Let us go to our heavenly Father in prayer.
Dear God, help us to forgive others of the sin committed against us. Please block all bitterness from our hearts. Please empower us to forgive as Jesus did. And also, dear Father, please teach us what our commitment to forgive actually means in terms of the life changes we need to make.
In Jesus' name we pray.
Amen.