Title: Scoring Wrongs?
Memorize: Therefore be merciful, just as your Father also is merciful. Luke 6:36 (Nkjv)
Bible Reading: Ezekiel 18:26-27 (Nkjv)
[26] When a righteous man turns away from his righteousness, commits iniquity, and dies in it, it is because of the iniquity which he has done that he dies.
[27] Again, when a wicked man turns away from the wickedness which he committed, and does what is lawful and right, he preserves himself alive.
Message:
There is a distinction between remembering past situations and refusing to forgive people for their wrongdoings.
When someone has been traumatized through abuse or violence, the painful memories can last for years, but if you forgive your offender(s), the healing process may be faster.
One of the reasons people keep records of wrongs is so that they can get revenge.
Some people go as far as planning their revenge carefully and striking the offender when he or she least expects it.
This is ungodly and should not be practiced by a child of God. Our God is always forgiving; He never keeps records of wrongs.
Imagine what would happen to the world, including you, if God keeps records of wrongs.
Therefore, if you are His child, you should let go of the wrongs people do to you, no matter how painful they may be.
A practical way to do this is to pour your heart to God in sincerity – tell Him how hurt and angry you are.
Afterwards, plead that He takes the pain away and sends His peace into your heart.
If you do this, you will find it easy to forgive and let go of the wrongs done to you.
This is what I do, and it works for me. If God has never failed me, He will not fail you.
Action Point:
Forgive anyone who might have hurt you today.
HYMN: TIS SO SWEET TO TRUST IN JESUS
1 Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus,
Just to take Him at His Word;
Just to rest upon His promise;
Just to know, “Thus saith the Him! Lord.”
Refrain
Jesus, Jesus, how I trust Him
How l’ve proved Him o’er and o’er!
Jesus, Jesus, precious Jesus!
O for grace to trust Him more!
2 O how sweet to trust in Jesus,
Just to trust His cleansing blood;
And in simple faith to plunge me
‘Neath the healing, cleansing Hood!
3 Yes, ’tis sweet to trust in Jesus,
Just from sin and self to cease;
Just from Jesus simply taking
Life and rest, and joy and peace.
4 I’m so glad I learn’d to trust Thee,
Precious Jesus, Savior, Friend,
And I know that Thou art with me,
Wilt be with me to the end.
Bible In One Year: 2 Chronicles 11:1-13:22 Romans 8:26-39
Authors: Pastor E. A Adeboye & Pastor Folu Adeboye