Monday, April 4, 2016

“…But to whom little is forgiven, the same loves little.” (Luke 7:47)

In the story of the woman who washed Jesus’ feet with her hair, Jesus says of her, “Therefore I say to you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven, for she loved much. But to whom little is forgiven, the same loves little.” (Luke 7:47)

Jesus had been invited to the home of a Pharisee who believed he was in right standing with God because he was a religious person. 

This is the position many of us have taken who’ve attended church regularly, don’t cus, don’t chew or go with those who do, as the old saying goes.

We must realize that God does not have a permissive will! The truth is, God is merciful, patient and kind. He waits for each of us to realize our sins, confess them and receive forgiveness. (1 John 1:9) 

However; there is a caveat to being forgiven. We must forgive first or we tie the hands of God. Look at the following scriptures.

In the Lord’s Prayer that is prayed every Sunday in many churches (Matthew 6:12) Jesus tells us, "And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.”

Matthew 6:14-15 NIV: 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.

Ephesians 4:31-32 NIV: Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ, God forgave you.

Matthew 18: 21-22: 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..”

According to Matthew 5:23-24 (NIV) even our offerings are not accepted if we hold onto unforgiveness.: “Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift.”

Luke 6:37 NIV: "...Forgive, and you will be forgiven."

Luke 23:34 NIV: Here we witness Jesus’ last act to us on the cross, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.”

Jesus stands ready to forgive us of much. Are you ready to receive His forgiveness by confessing your sins and forgiving every person who has sinned against you?

It is a decision, not a feeling. If you need help, Jesus is here to help you. Ask!

Psalm 66:18 (KJV) says, “If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me:”

Jesus made the way on the cross for us to be forgiven. This covenant is two sided. Jesus forgives us as we forgive. 

Blessings on your day!

Karen



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