Originally posted 01/31/2009
Jesus gave us an example of how to pray in Matthew 6:9-13. Many know this as the Lord’s prayer. What intrigues me though is what follows in verses 14 and 15. Verses 14 and 15 are the emphasis on a portion of the prayer just in case we did not get it the first time. Is not Jesus so sweet to give us a second chance to get it?
Matthew 6:12 states “And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.” and in case we missed the point He further emphasizes the point later after the prayer. Verses 14 and 15 tell us “For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” Talk about a powerful emphasis on what was said earlier! I do not think Christ could have said it more plainly.
Often times the topic of forgiveness is taught in relations to our earthly relationships one with another; but here Christ taught it as an important part of prayer. So how is your prayer life doing?
