Key Text: Matthew 18:35 KJV - So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses.

The principle of sowing and reaping is emphasised in various passages of the Scripture. The Lord expects us to have compassion upon those that trespass against us and forgive them, so that He will also forgive us when we sin against Him. But if we choose to harden our hearts and refuse to forgive our offenders, the Lord likewise will not forgive us when we plead for mercy because of our sins. Do not forget that you will always need God's forgiveness (for there is no man that sinneth not - 1 Kings 8:46).

How will you present your case before the Lord if you refuse to forgive your brother? For it is written: Produce your cause, saith the Lord; bring forth your strong reasons, saith the King of Jacob - Isaiah 41:21. Jesus also taught His disciples to pray thus: And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors - Matthew 6:12. The Lord also commands, "And when ye stand praying, forgive if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses" - Mark 11:25.

It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God because of the sin of unforgiveness. If a man sin against another, the judge shall judge him: but if a man sin against the Lord, who shall intreat for him? - 1 Samuel 2:25. Precious people, the Lord commands: "Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets". You cannot make heaven if the Lord does not forgive your sins. Learn to forgive.

Prayer: O Lord, Give me grace to forgive my offenders and all those that will ever trespass against me, in Jesus name. Amen.

Reflection: And as ye would that men should do to you, do ye also to them likewise - Luke 6:31.