Family Devotion: Let It Go
- Kevin Garrison
- 20 hours ago
- 2 min read
📖 READ IT
' and forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. ' - Matthew 6:12 ESV
🔍 DISCOVER IT
In this petition Jesus teaches us to pray for two things at the same time: forgiveness received and forgiveness extended. When Jesus uses the word "debts," He is referring to our sins against God. Just as a financial debt creates an obligation, our sin creates a debt we cannot repay. The good news of the gospel is that through Jesus Christ, God cancels the debt we owe Him. But Jesus doesn't stop there. He teaches us to pray: "Forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors." Those who have been forgiven by God are called to become forgivers themselves. Forgiveness is releasing the debt someone owes us because God has released the debt we owed Him. Forgiveness does not mean that the offense wasn't real. A forgiven person becomes a forgiving person.
💬 ASK IT
When you hear the word "debt," what comes to mind? How does Jesus' use of that word help you understand the seriousness of sin?
Why do you think Jesus connects God's forgiveness of us with our forgiveness of others?
🧭 LIVE IT
Consider these statements about forgiveness:
Forgiveness is not approval, forgetting, pretending, or necessarily reconciling.
Forgiveness is releasing.
Pray for the person who hurt you.
If you have never received God's forgiveness through faith in Jesus Christ, remember that the greatest debt canceled is the debt of our sin. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus paid what we could never repay. Consider placing your faith in Him today. If you need help taking that next step, please reach out to our ministry staff at 864-223-4377.
🙏 PRAY IT
Father, thank You for forgiving a debt we could never repay. Help us remember the grace You have shown us through Jesus Christ. Give us hearts that are quick to forgive, slow to hold grudges, and willing to trust You with justice. Teach us to release the debts others owe us just as You have released our debt to You. Help us to truly let it go—not because the hurt wasn't real, but because Your grace is greater. In Jesus' name, Amen.