Mark 11:22–25 ‘And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.’ (v25)
Having considered God’s Word and will, we now turn to God’s work, both in us and through us. These verses present the essence of living every day with Jesus. We must constantly explore how to grow the mustard seed of faith that God’s Spirit deposits in our heart, and refuse to hold grudges against others.
Faith is a muscle which, through everyday activity, is strengthened. Described as a minute mustard seed (Matt. 17:20), I feel in the light of the possibilities Scripture attributes to the exercise of faith that I am half a husk short of a full seed! Faith is only one half of daily Christian practice. Forgiveness is also foundational to discipleship. Conceived and birthed through God’s forgiveness, there is no redemption, no friendship with God, without forgiveness. I know this theologically, but often only live it theoretically. I fail to forgive and have a history of unforgiveness.
Will I address it? No! It’s painful, embarrassing and challenges my own perspective on my experiences. But, if I refuse to extend forgiveness I must surrender any expectation of God’s forgiveness. Jesus taught us to pray that God would forgive us our violations to the extent we forgive those who violate us (Matt 6:12). If I’m to grow as a Christian, I must constantly work at both faith and forgiveness.
Scripture to consider: Psa. 51; Prov. 10:8–16; Luke 6:27–45; 23:26–43.
An action to take: Are there people you need to forgive so that you can grow your faith?
A prayer to make: ‘Lord, help me to keep short accounts with others by forgiving quickly and choosing to live by faith in Your grace. Amen.’
Photo by Trym Nilsen on Unsplash
