Today’s Key Scripture

“As we forgive our debtors.”

— Matthew 6:12

 

Forgiveness is a two-way street. We are forgiven as we forgive others. The Lord Jesus wanted us to understand this truth when He underlined the importance of forgiveness, saying, “For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses” (Matthew 6:14-15).

Matthew Henry, the remarkable Bible teacher and commentator, wrote that this “is not a plea of merit, but a plea of grace. Those that come to God for the forgiveness of their sins against him, must make conscience of forgiving those who have offended them, else they curse themselves when they say the Lord’s prayer.”

There are two sins from which there is no forgiveness: blasphemy against the Holy Spirit (Mark 3:22-30) and unforgiveness. Effective prayer is only possible when our relationship is right with God and with His people.

The wise proverb warns, “He who covers his sins will not prosper, but whoever confesses and forsakes them will have mercy” (Proverbs 28:13).

After confession and forsaking sins, we must forgive. Without forgiving others, prayer and an intimate relationship with the Holy Spirit is just empty and powerless.

So today—from your heart—forgive, forgive, forgive!

 

A Prayer for Today

God of all mercy, I ask You today for Your mercy and forgiveness to surround me today and all the days of my life. I thank You for the power of forgiveness so that I can release all hurts to You, forgiving others as You have forgiven me. Help me walk in righteousness, peace, and joy, reflecting Your love to others. Help me speak hope, health, and peace wherever I go. I pray all this in the name above all names, Jesus, amen.

 

*All Scripture references are NKJV unless otherwise noted.