For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. Matthew 6:14

Discussion:

Forgiveness is the key to salvation.  Jesus Christ was given to man in order to pay in blood for our forgiveness of sins.  This passage reminds us that if we are to be forgiven we must also forgive others.  Forgiveness is often far reaching, not only is he reminding us to forgive others who have sinned against us, but to forgive ourselves so that we can receive his blessings and his promise of joy.  As long as we hold onto anger we can and will never be forgiven completely or healed totally.  We think that forgiveness is for the other person but it is not, forgiveness is for ourselves.  Don't punish yourself because of another person!  The hurt will only turn on our own heart and who we become is dark and ugly, hatred will veil all things and the JOY he promised is will be harder to reach.


Breathe Prayer:

Lord I forgive all who have hurt me please take this pain and anger, forgive me also for holding on to anger.


Meditation:

Make it a point to forgive the people that have hurt you.  If you have blamed anyone unjustly forgive and forgive yourself.  Feel the embrace of Christ and the lifting of the burden of hate.