Luke chapter 17 verses 1-4 (NIV)
Jesus said to his disciples: “Things that cause people to stumble are bound to come, but woe to anyone through whom they come. It would be better for them to be thrown into the sea with a millstone tied around their neck than to cause one of these little ones to stumble. So watch yourselves.“If your brother or sister sins against you, rebuke them; and if they repent, forgive them. Even if they sin against you seven times in a day and seven times come back to you saying ‘I repent,’ you must forgive them.”
Jesus reminded His disciples of the need to be careful of our actions so that they don’t cause anyone else to stumble. We are often watched, particularly by young people who may want to follow our example. So we need to make sure we don’t lead them astray.
He also taught that if someone asks for out forgiveness we shouldn’t keep a count. I found myself wondering today about what happens if someone isn’t sincere when they ask for forgiveness. I think however, we must still forgive. I believe that God will deal with the aspect of sincerity. That’s not my job. Jesus doesn’t give us a reason to withhold our forgiveness. That’s when it gets hard. But God has withheld no good thing to those who walk uprightly, so we also need not to withhold our forgiveness.
Dear Lord,
Thank You that every time I have asked for forgiveness, You have given it with grace and mercy. Help me to do likewise. I ask in Jesus’ Name. Amen.