Human Forgiveness Versus God's Forgiveness

Daily Devotions

David Maxson
08/23/15 - Daily Devotions

Reading for August 23rd: Jeremiah 38-41
Weekly reading for August 23-29: 1 Timothy 1-6

But I received mercy for this reason, that in me, as the foremost, Jesus Christ might display his perfect patience as an example to those who were to believe in him for eternal life.

1 Timothy 1:16

How many of us, having committed a sin for which we are particularly ashamed, have delayed confession because of the extra burden of guilt? We fully intend to confess our sin, but only after we've "proven" our worth by not sinning over a period of time.

We must be careful that we don't equate God's forgiveness with human forgiveness. Our forgiveness to each other tends to be conditional and partial. We say, "I forgive you," with our lips, but in our hearts what we're really saying is, "I forgive you, but I'll never forget." We perpetually hold the transgression over their head, and that's not forgiveness from the heart (Matthew 18:35). That's probation.

Forgiveness is not something that must be earned. It is a gift. That's why the Bible calls it grace. When God forgives it is free and complete. He releases us from the debt, never to be brought up again.

God wants to forgive you... whatever you've done and however long you've done it. Grace is a gift. It is free. It is completely undeserved.

Father, we come to the Cross this morning and lay down our burdens at the feet of our Savior! To the King of ages, immortal, indivisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen.