Morning Devotional 061825 Forgiven

Liz’s Morning Devotional: Scripture selected from Upper Room

June 18, 2025

Matthew 18:21-22

21 Then Peter said to Jesus, “Lord, how many times should I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Should I forgive as many as seven times?” 22 Jesus said, “Not just seven times, but rather as many as seventy-seven times. 

Good Morning! Our God is merciful!

When is it too much? Jesus' words are not some math problem to which we should calculate an answer. His point is that we should forgive others as many times as it takes, just as our Father forgives us infinite times. 

It is annoying when someone continuously insults or slights you. In the beginning, you might laugh it off or ignore it, but at some point, we reach our breaking point and lash out against our oppressor. 

My response to Jesus’ words is Praise be to God! Our God is merciful and forgives me of my repeated iniquities. In turn, we are to forgive others as God forgives us. Jesus died for our sins so that our debt is fully paid. 

I recently overheard a conversation at a local waiting room where a “learned” man was authoritatively sharing his belief that if we sin after accepting Christ, then we are purposely choosing to do so, and therefore, not forgiven. 

I was not looking for a confrontation in the waiting room, but I couldn't let those false words linger in the air. Fortunately, the “learned” man’s car was finished, and he left before I had the opportunity to speak. God compelled me to share the story of God’s love, mercy, and grace with all. 

I spoke to the young man who seemed to be the bearer of the conversation, and shared that we are all sinners. No matter how hard we try to live a righteous life, we inevitably fall short and sin. Then I share the Good News: God loves us and accepts all who repent of their sins, no matter how many times we sin, whether seven times or seventy-seven times, or any other number. We must repent and ask forgiveness, and God will make it so. 

Giving Lord, you bless us abundantly! You call us to share your story in awkward moments. Give us the strength to allow your love and mercy to flow through us to the world. Thank you. We love you, Lord! In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen

Thought for the day: Forgiveness brings us closer to God.

God forgives those who ask! Pastor Liz