15 June 2024 Word by Senior Pastor, Pastor Darien Choo

Today‘s Inspiration: “Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?” Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.” Matthew‬ ‭18‬:‭21‬-‭22.‬ ‭Forgiveness is not a suggestion in the Bible but a command by the Lord. It is not a feeling but a decision to be freed through the love of Christ and to be freed from the hurts of others. Many a times our minds and emotions are ensnared by offences and even wounds of the past. We can only renew our mind through repentance, forgiveness and transformation. Romans 12:2.

True, sincere and earnest forgiveness is difficult. We can forgive using our lips but deep inside us, there can be a knot in the belly or resentment in the mind whenever we see or mention the person and event. Jesus was not freeing the brothers or sisters of their actions against Peter but on the contrary freeing him from the offences in his heart and mind. There is no depth for the grace of God for His mercies. Romans 5:20. God desire us to be free from our past wounds, hurts and pain. Unforgiveness is a self hurting spirit which triggers health, emotional and mental issues. Without Christ’s divine word and commands to Peter, there is not spiritual formation in him but praise unto God, forgiveness is the power of the Cross and the Gospel. And obedience is better than sacrifice. Jesus paid it all for us. Glory to God!

Prayer: O Lord my God, I surrender all offences in my heart to you at the Cross. There is power in the blood of Jesus to redeem me from all past wounds, pain and hurts. My joy is found in Christ alone, who forgave all my sins and its my joy to find freedom in forgiveness to others and self. Your grace overwhelms me with gratitude and your love overflows in me with liberty in the Spirit. For who the Son sets free, is free indeed, in Jesus' Name, Amen.