Forgiveness

Written by cycleguy on July 10th, 2016

I realize forgiveness is a much-talked about subject. That’s okay. I talked about it some more today (Sunday).  🙂  In my mind, I can never talk about it or grace enough.

Psalm 130 opens with a cry from the depths by the psalmist. What is in question is why is he in the depths? Is it because of suffering or because of sin? Both are legitimate thoughts. I said that in my sermon. But I also felt there was a big need to let people know if he is speaking of sin there were four thoughts to keep in mind:

  1. God’s forgiveness is inclusive. Verse 4 tells us that. We would do well to stop putting a premium of one over another.
  2. God’s forgiveness is for now. The verse uses the word “is.” The Hebrew grammar is even more intense. There is no verb. It literally says, “With You forgiveness.”
  3. God’s forgiveness is for those who want it. Confess sin; don’t cover it up. The psalmist is pleading for mercy.
  4. God’s forgiveness leads to godly living. Verse 4 says, “that you may be feared.” I can hear some saying, “Wait! Shouldn’t that say loved?” Biblical fear has to do with a reverence and awe of God.

The important thing to remember is this: forgiveness is not dependent on feeling forgiven. God’s promise is unfailing.

I know there were  those in attendance who needed to hear that. (And probably some not there). Maybe you do as well.

 

12 Comments so far ↓

  1. Linda Stoll says:

    Is there a day that passes by where we don’t need to ask for forgiveness from God or others …

    Or a day when we don’t have to offer that grace-gift to another soul … or even to ourselves.

    Thanks for this needed prompt, Bill!

  2. What I like about forgiveness, at least God’s forgiveness, is that it’s bigger than me or my forgiveness.

  3. I need to remind myself every day how much God has forgiven me and how He will continue to be faithful to forgive when I turn to him in repentance. And may we not forget to forgive others.
    Blessings, Bill!

  4. Betty Draper says:

    We can only forgive out of the well of our knowledge of being forgiven.

  5. Jeff says:

    Wouldn’t it be nice if you could tell who was a Christian because they were the most forgiving people in the crowd. Keep after them Bill. Maybe someday.

    • cycleguy says:

      Absolutely no argument here Jeff. I wish I could say I am an example of that but I fail. However, your point is well taken.

  6. Sharon says:

    Yes, Bill, there are some who need to hear that, and others (like me) who need to hear it again and again. Grace is a living thing, like the water we need to drink each day. And when we don’t *feel* forgiven, we are turning to our own self-judgment, and essentially tossing aside God’s word and promise. Claim the truth, and ask God to deal with the feelings of condemnation, guilt, and shame.

    GOD BLESS!

  7. Ed says:

    It’s sad that so many believe that God’s forgiveness is still a license to sin. But forgiveness is what it is…