Made New Prayer DevotionalЗагвар

THOUGHT OF THE DAY

Forgiveness is a powerful thing! That being said, it can be hard to forgive those who have hurt us. Whether the grievance is big or small, it can take a toll on us over time.

What is at stake if we do not forgive others or ask for forgiveness? In one sense, forgiveness is about unity. Through Jesus, we are united together in the sacrifice He made. When we choose not to forgive, we are forsaking the unity that Christ bought for us. In a similar way, when we do not ask for forgiveness, we are denying that our actions might have caused others pain. Any circumstance where we refuse forgiveness tears down our unity. Living in harmony with one another is important. Read Matthew 5:23-24. It reminds us that even if we are doing spiritual practices (such as praying) and we realize we have wronged someone, we should decide at first opportunity to ask for forgiveness from that person. God wants His people to be unified with each other.

Your daily time of prayer is a place where you can pray for the courage to forgive. It is also a time where God can remind us of people who we may have hurt and ask them for forgiveness. God never reminds us of these things to condemn or shame us, but instead God is inviting us back into harmony with Him and those around us through the great gift of forgiveness.

GUIDED PRAYER

Lord, I love You. Help me know more of You each day, God. Show me the people I need to ask for forgiveness. Give me the courage to reach out to them and make things right. Lord, thank You that forgiveness is a gift You have given. Forgive me of my sins and help me forgive those who have sinned against me. I ask that You open my eyes to the people around me so that I may show them You through my words and deeds. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

REFLECTION

What did you pray for today?

How will you let this experience shape your interactions with others?