Forgive as God forgives you

Rev. Charles Oppong-Poku | June 19, 2023 | Matthew 18:21-22

KEY VERSE:

Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times. Matthew 18:22 (NIV)

MESSAGE

Forgiveness lies at the heart of the Christian faith. It is a transformative act that reflects the boundless grace and mercy we have received from God. In Matthew 18:21-22, Jesus teaches us about the nature of forgiveness and challenges us to forgive those who hurt or wrong us. This devotional study highlights the profound truth of forgiving as God forgives, inviting us to reflect on the depths of forgiveness and its implications for our relationships and spiritual growth. The passage begins with Peter asking Jesus, "Lord, how often will my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? As many as seven times?" (verse 21 NKJV)

The key verse captures Jesus' response to Peter's question, where He says, "I do not say to you seven times, but seventy times seven." (verse 22 NKJV). In essence, Jesus is teaching us to extend limitless forgiveness to others. Just as God's forgiveness is boundless, we are called to forgive repeatedly, without keeping a record of wrongs. Forgiving as God forgives brings transformation to our lives and relationships. When we choose to forgive, we release the burden of resentment, bitterness, and anger. Forgiveness opens the door to healing, reconciliation, and restoration.

Forgiving as God forgives is an ongoing journey that requires humility, grace, and reliance on the Holy Spirit. It may involve forgiving those who have hurt us deeply, as well as extending forgiveness to ourselves. Forgiving as God forgives brings freedom, healing, and restoration. Take time to examine your relationships and consider if there are any areas to seek forgiveness or extend it to others.

FEET AND HANDS OF THE MESSAGE:

Consider the areas in your life where forgiveness may be challenging, and ask God to empower you to extend His forgiveness to those who have hurt or wronged you. Meditate on the freedom and peace that come with forgiveness. As followers of Christ, we are called to forgive as God forgives us. Reflect on the immeasurable depths of God's forgiveness in your own life and allow His love to inspire and empower you to extend that same forgiveness to others.

PRAYER:

Dear Lord, thank you for the immeasurable depths of your forgiveness for me. Please empower me to extend your forgiveness to those who have hurt or wronged me. May I walk in Your footsteps, imitating Your forgiveness, and become an agent of reconciliation and grace in a broken world. In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen!

THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.

SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!