Daily Delight Devotional – Monday, October 23, 2023

And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.

Luke 15:20 (KJV)

The story of the prodigal son illustrates the powerful concept of forgiveness. This young man had squandered his inheritance, but he came to his senses and decided to return to his father, hoping for forgiveness. In our modern era, unforgiveness is prevalent even within the church. The prodigal son had confidence that his father would show him mercy and forgive him when he returned. He believed in the forgiving nature of his father.

Forgiveness is foundational to Christianity. Jesus went to the cross to provide forgiveness for our sins. One of Jesus’ final statements on the cross was to ask God to forgive those who crucified Him, emphasizing the importance of forgiveness, even without being asked. As a true believer or disciple of Jesus, forgiveness should be your nature. When you forgive, you free yourself from the bondage of bitterness and resentment, allowing you to serve God with a sincere heart. Unforgiveness is contrary to God’s nature and is a tool used by Satan to hinder the church.

If you are struggling with bitterness and unforgiveness, seek the grace to forgive those who have wronged you, regardless of the offence. Jesus’s teachings emphasize the necessity of forgiveness in the life of a Christian.

Insight: Forgiveness is a commandment of Jesus, and anything contrary to this commandment is influenced by the devil. Therefore, practice forgiveness unconditionally.

Prayer: Father, grant me the grace to forgive people, regardless of their actions, in the name of Jesus.

Further Bible Reading: Mark 11:25
Daily Bible Reading: Amos 3:6-9