“And forgive us our debts as we also have forgiven our debtors.” Mathew 6:12 NAS

As Christians, we must not forget a key element of the journey we navigate: forgiveness. Jesus taught us to forgive others just as God forgives us. The psalmist recognized this: “For Thou, Lord, art good and ready to forgive. And abundant in love and kindness to all who call upon Thee. “(Psalm 86:5) Notice that little word ‘all.’ In evaluating our lives and seeking the Lord for transformation, forgiveness is the key. Like the Lord, be ready to forgive all.

Blame is a destructive force, alienating us from God and others. It’s an obstacle to spiritual growth. It keeps us in a prison, lost in a world of judgment, negativity, and pain. Forgiveness is that key unlocking the door to life, healing, growth. Only we have control of that key. Christ died that we might be forgiven and have life. He asks us to die to self, and put on compassion, kindness, and humility to forgive others. (Colossians 3:12-13)

Are there family, friends, or neighbors you need to forgive? Are you willing to allow past hurtful words or deeds to poison your spiritual life, to keep you from all of God’s blessings? Are you willing to be held captive in the prison of unforgiving? Pray for the Lord to soften your heart, to infuse His love and kindness within you. Pray for that person or persons. God will soften your heart and reveal a new picture, that you may take that key and be set free!

“And be kind to one another, compassionate, forgiving one another as God forgave you in Christ.” (Ephesians 4:32)