Forgive Anything

Now whom you forgive anything, I also forgive. For if indeed I have forgiven anything, I have forgiven that one for your sakes in the presence of Christ, lest Satan should take advantage of us; for we are not ignorant of his devices. (2 Corinthians 2:10-11 NKJV)

Pursue peace with all people, and holiness ... looking carefully lest anyone fall short of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up cause trouble. (Hebrews 12:14-15 NKJV)

"And whenever you stand praying, if you have anything against anyone, forgive him, that your Father in heaven may also forgive you your trespasses. But if you do not forgive, neither will your Father in heaven forgive your trespasses." (Mark 11:25-26 NKJV)

No one wants to be taken advantage of—preyed upon, played for a fool, used—least of all by the devil. To withhold forgiveness is to open a door for the devil to take advantage of us.

Worse, failing to forgive the debts and trespasses of others holds us captive to the consequences of our own sin, whether temporary or eternal ones.

Whatever the cost to forgive anything, the cost to not forgive is much higher. However difficult, it is possible, and necessary. "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."

Lord God, You are our Deliverer, who sets us free from death. Grant to us the full life and freedom found in Your forgiveness. Please open our eyes to where we have failed to forgive. Please give us the strength to release debts which belong to You our Master alone. Set us in pursuit of peace.

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Copyright 2008, Anne Lang Bundy