Devotionals

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Seventy times Seven

Praise God that we are guided by the LORD. Jesus taught many lessons and explained many issues for us. 'He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.' (Micah 6:8) We are always learning. Following Jesus’ teachings will prepare us for the eternity we will have with God in Heaven.

However there are some lessons from the Lord we seem to have trouble putting into constant practice. One of the biggest obstacles Christians have in our paths is unforgiveness.

While in this life, we are going to have wrongs done to us intentionally and hurts that come from the thoughtlessness of others. Mercy must be carried out determinedly. Jesus told us to pray thus: "…Forgive us our transgressions, as we also have forgiven those who transgressed against us…" (Matthew 6:12) Notice the clause: AS we have forgiven. Jesus also said "For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins." (Matthew 6:14-15) The Lord was earnest when He said we must forgive. If we want to be forgiven so must we forgive other. No ifs, ands, or buts…

From my personal experiences I know that you will not heal from a hurt until you let it go. All of us have had things done to us that were damaging to our spirits and our bodies. Everyone one of us has had our hearts broken. However, when you truly forgive the person that sinned against you, then you can have ‘closure’ because you have closed it in Jesus’ name and NO man can open it.

Forgiveness must also be continuous. 'Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, "Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother when he sins against me? Up to seven times?" Jesus answered "I tell you, not seven times, but seventy times seven"' (Matthew 18:21-22). That is a tough, but necessary detail.
Determined and continual forgiveness must be accomplished by us; even as God has suffered us through the ages.

'Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.' (Colossians 3:13)

O holy LORD, thank You for the forgiveness of our sins. Without Your cleansing us we'd be lost for eternity, never to know true peace on Earth or the forever and ever joy in Your Presence. Thank You, Jesus, for teaching us how to forgive others as You have forgiven us. Edify us, Holy Spirit, how to let go of past hurts, whether real or imagined. Father God, heal us and teach us so that we do not hinder our walk with You, by holding grudges and bearing unforgiveness in our hearts. In Jesus’ name I pray.

July 28, 2005

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