Forgive Us Our Debts Series

What does it mean that when we forgive, God will forgive? And when we don't forgive, then won't God forgive us? This means that if I refuse to forgive others, it shows that I have not received forgiveness from God. For those who have received forgiveness from God, forgiveness will flow from their hearts. If there is no human forgiveness in our hearts, it shows that there is also no heavenly forgiveness. God's forgiveness will open our eyes to the need to forgive others. This is what it means: forgive us as we have forgiven those who have wronged us. If we truly know God as Father, then we should be partners with God to give forgiveness. Our forgiveness for others' sins does not make God forgive us, but this is proof that we have entered into God's forgiveness. Those who have felt God's forgiveness will more readily forgive their fellow guilty.

Augustine called this request a "bad" request because if we pray "Forgive us our debts, as we also forgive those who wrong us," and at the same time still hold grudges, we are asking God not to forgive us anyway.

When John Wesley served as a missionary in the American colony, he faced difficulties with General James Oglethorpe. This general is famous for his arrogance and rudeness. Once Oglethorpe exclaimed, "I have never forgiven." Wesley immediately retorted, "In that case, sir, I hope you have never sinned." Is there someone you need to forgive? Someone who has hurt you or caused so much emotional and financial damage to you or ruined your reputation? Our Lord Jesus Christ wants you to forgive him/her now!

May God always make us aware of our mistakes so we can immediately ask for forgiveness and repent. And may He also enable us to forgive those who have wronged or hurt our hearts.