AUGUST 30, 2024
Topic: “BEARING GOD’S PRESENCE THROUGH POSITIVE INFLUENCE –
FORGIVENESS”
Text: Matthew 6:9 – 15
Memory Verse: 1 Corinthians 15:58 – “Hosea 10:12 – “Sow for yourselves in righteousness; Reap in mercy; Break up your fallow ground; Till He comes and rains righteousness on you”.
Forgiveness connotes intentionally releasing a hurt and also releasing the person who caused the hurt. Adam and Eve sinned, they hurt God in the garden of Eden and from there sin passed to the whole world. (Romans 3:23). God gave us His only begotten Son, Jesus Christ to take the punishment due to us. (Romans 6:23). Because of Jesus, God intentionally released us and released the hurt. We are forgiven in Christ Jesus.
Forgiveness is vertical, horizontal and internal. Vertical as God forgives us in Christ. Horizontal as we also forgive those who hurt us and release the hurt. Internal as we learn to forgive ourselves, rather than retaining the guilt and shame. You shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. Therefore, if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed. (John 8:32 & 36)
PRAYER: Pray to forgive others and yourself, even as God has forgiven you.