By Jesse Sackey
READING: Matthew 18:21-35.
“Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them. 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 11:24-26)
Do you have a lot of unanswered prayers? Then read the above Scriptures carefully. Here is our Lord Jesus Christ teaching on prayer, and He brings up what is common to many of us: non-forgiveness. What has that got to do with our prayers? A great deal according to Christ. Not forgiving others has enough power to block our prayers from reaching God. It is a great barrier.
Non-forgiveness is an affront to God because He forgives us, who really do not deserve it.
His mercies make it possible for us to be forgiven. So, if we refuse to forgive others, it amounts to wickedness on our part, in the eyes of the Lord.
Now see how serious that is: “God is a just judge, And God is angry with the wicked every day.” (Psalm 7:11)
Therefore, which one would you choose: the wrath of God or His favor? This is why it is essential to walk in forgiveness towards others. When praying to God, at least, for the sake of answers to our own prayers. Jesus is coming soon!
🙏 PRAYER: Precious and Everlasting Father, please grant me grace to walk in total forgiveness towards all who offend me. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen!
