DEVOTION – DAY 435

Matthew 18:21-22 “Forgiving Others”

Matthew 18:21-22 “Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother and sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?” Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times but seventy-seven times.”

The topic of forgiveness was raised by the apostle Peter. He thought he was forgiving by nature already when he approached and asked Jesus how many times he should forgive someone. He thought that he was generous in forgiving people by suggesting forgiving someone up to seven times. At that time, Jewish tradition suggested that forgiveness up to 3 times was recommended. To his amazement, Jesus’ reply was seventy-seven times. Jesus meant that when it came to forgiving someone when they have done something wrong, forgiveness is without a limit. That is the way God forgives us. God does not limit His forgiveness to us when we sin. If we confess and repent, God willingly forgives us. God never keeps count. In the same way, God expects us to forgive others. 

A woman discovered that her husband was secretly having an affair. She was upset and angry with her husband. She confronted her husband and wanted to kick him out of the house. But she calmed down when she thought of their children. She remembered the good times she had with her husband. She decided to forgive her husband if he was willing to end his affair and be faithful to her. He promised her he would end his affair. But he did not. This went on for a few years. She hung on to her marriage trying to save it for the sake of her children. She was prepared to forgive her husband even though she was deeply hurt by his actions. Looking back, she could only forgive her husband because she knew it was the right thing to do as a Christian. Just as God forgave her for her own sins, she must forgive her husbands’ sins against her. It was hard for her but she found the strength to do so. But the more she forgave her husband, the more he took her for granted. Until one day, he came home and asked her for a divorce because he wanted to marry his lover. By that time, God had emotionally prepared her and she calmly granted him the divorce. She was no longer bitter and it was time for her to find a life of her own. Today, her children remain close to her. She was able to rebuild her life for the Lord has given her His strength and peace. She did not allow bitterness to eat into her. Instead, she chose to be covered by God’s love. 

Let us pray: Heavenly Father, we thank you for forgiving us whenever we sin, confess and repent before you. Thank you for teaching us to forgive us and not keep a score. Please help us to be forgiving always. In the wonderful name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.

Questions

1. Why is it hard for people to forgive others who may have done something wrong? Discuss.
2. Who do you need to approach to seek forgiveness and repair a broken relationship with? Will you do so?
3. Who do you need to forgive? 
4. What does unforgiveness do to you emotionally and mentally? How does forgiveness free you from such emotional and mental baggage?