I feel worse when I offend or sin against someone, than when they sin against me. When people mistreat, speak evil, or fail to keep their promise, I tend to be quick to forgive. Maybe its because I have been forgiven so much. When I fail or harm someone else, I honestly grieve and get bummed out. Thank God the people closest to me are also good forgivers. I hope my words or actions ever cause another to sin. Jesus warned about our attitudes toward sin and also about keeping an atmosphere of forgiveness. It sure makes life more pleasant. After all, stumbling blocks will always come.
Now He said to His disciples, “It is inevitable that stumbling blocks come, but woe to one through whom they come! It is better for him if a millstone is hung around his neck and he is thrown into the sea, than that he may cause one of these little ones to sin. Be on your guard! If your brother sins, rebuke him; and if he repents, forgive him. And if he sins against you seven times a day, and returns to you seven times, saying, ‘I repent,’ you shall forgive him.” Luke 17:1-4
Is there anyone that I have not forgiven from the heart? How do I need to repent and seek forgiveness from anyone else? As a pastor, do I teach the Word of God in such a way that causes anyone to stumble?
God, as this day begins- I am grateful for so much. Thank you that I feel guilt free. The people in my life are gracious and forgiving. May I be the same and I seek to reconcile others to You. I am remembering and asking You to care for those who today will care for others- firefighter, first responders, police officers, hospital workers, doctors, nurses, and even grocery store clerks. Bless them in ways that only You can. As I meet with a grieving family today, may I serve them well.
