Matthew 18:21-23

Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?” Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy- seven times. “Therefore, the kingdom of heaven is like a king who wanted to settle accounts with his servants.

So, this is how the story begins… This king decided to settle accounts with his servants. One man came in who owed him 10,000 talents of gold (worth about 2000 years of wages for a day laborer). Since the man could not pay it back, he fell on his knees and began to beg the king. The king decided to have mercy on him and forgave him all his debt. But, as soon as the man went out, he found one of his fellow servants who owed him a hundred silver coins (worth about 100 days of work for a day laborer). Since the man could not pay it back immediately, he took him to the jailer and had him thrown in prison. When the king found out, he sent for the servant for whom he had forgiven all the debt; he had him thrown in prison until he could pay the very last penny. Then Jesus said, this is what will be done to the one who is unwilling to forgive his brother or sister from the heart!

Jesus said,  "For if you forgive people their trespasses [their reckless and willful sins, leaving them, letting them go, and giving up resentment], your heavenly Father will also forgive you.  But if you do not forgive others their trespasses [their reckless and willful sins, leaving them, letting them go, and giving up resentment], neither will your Father forgive you your trespasses."   Matthew 6:14-15 

Wow! My sin against God has been great! How could I not forgive others when my debt is so huge!? Think about this – never – even in 2000 lifetimes would you or I be able to make our self-righteous enough to deserve God. Our sin is so great, yet we are completely forgiven! Since we have been completely forgiven of our huge debt against God, should we forgive those who have sinned against us? Understanding and receiving the forgiveness of our massive debt of sin against God is the revelation that can empower you to forgive the small debt (in comparison) of others against you. 

My heart goes out to you today! Bitterness and resentment are keeping many from the blessing God has for them. The sins of bitterness and unforgiveness are of the most sneaky and dangerous. Do you know that you are forgiven? Think about it – are you sure? Have you left the world of condemnation? Based upon God forgiving you, will you…

CHOOSE TO FORGIVE?

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