Living Free - December 9, 2016
Today's Scripture
"In prayer there is a connection between what God does and what you do. You can't get forgiveness from God, for instance, without also forgiving others. If you refuse to do your part, you cut yourself off from God's part." Matthew 6:14-15 MSG
Thoughts for Today
In today's scripture Jesus shows the divine significance of forgiveness. If we walk in unforgiveness, we cannot expect God to forgive us. We must forgive our spouse to receive forgiveness from our Father.
Unforgiveness is a serious thing. When we refuse to forgive our spouse (or anyone else), we harm ourselves. We allow bitterness, rage, jealousy, and mistrust to take control. We suffer emotional stress and scars. And we hurt others.
See that no one falls back from and fails to secure God's grace (His unmerited favor and spiritual blessing), in order that no root of resentment (rancor, bitterness, or hatred) shoots forth and causes trouble and bitter torment, and the many become contaminated and defiled by it. Hebrews 12:15 AMP
Consider this …
Are you holding something against your spouse? Clinging to unforgiveness? No matter what he or she may have done, God calls you to forgive. If you don't, you will continue to walk in pain, bitterness will grow, innocent people may suffer . . . and your Father will not forgive you.
You can change all that right now. Choose to forgive. Bow before your Father and ask forgiveness. And ask Him to help you forgive just as He has forgiven you.
Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. Colossians 3:13 NLT
Prayer
Father, I've been holding this against my spouse for some time now. Please forgive me. I choose to forgive, but I need your help. In Jesus' name . . .
These thoughts were drawn from …Committed Couples: God's Plan for Marriage & the Family by Dr. Jimmy Ray Lee. Whether in a private or group setting, couples will be encouraged spiritually and romantically as they research biblical principles that affirm their vows. This book can help every married couple grow spiritually and emotionally in their relationship. It is also a great help for engaged-to-be-married couples.
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