March 4 2013 (Numbers 34-36, Mark 11)
From the Life Journal of Adam Proux:
Scripture: “But when you are praying, first forgive anyone you are holding a grudge against, so that your Father in heaven will forgive your sins too.” Mark 11:25 NLT
Observation: Jesus is teaching His disciples about prayer. He is explaining to them how to get what they pray for. It all starts with faith (verse 22), then truth provides us the authority we need to make it happen (verse 23). But you must really believe it will happen and have no doubt in your heart. You can pray for anything, and if you believe that you’ve received it, it will be yours. But first, you must forgive anyone you are holding a grudge against, so that your Father in heaven will forgive your sins too!
Application: Holding grudges against others will always harm you, more than them. A grudge left unforgiven will fester into bitterness that hinders our attitude, and our prayers. Forgiveness is the key that unlocks one from the bondage of bitterness. Forgiveness is also the key to our prayers being answered. We all fall short of His marvellous glory, we all need His grace. None of us are perfect, no not one. We have all gone astray and failed to live up to His standard. We all need His forgiveness. Forgiveness is the key to the freedom we all need and desire. Be set free today, let go of the grudge!
Prayer: Dear Lord, thank you for Your wonderful word that instructs and encourages us to do the right thing. Thank You for the forgiveness that You have given to me, help me forgive those that have wronged me. Enable me by Your Spirit, to let the grudge go. Help those who hold grudges against me to experience the same freedom. In Jesus name, Amen!