Living Free - Dec. 17, 2013

Living Free Every Day®

"Jesus said, 'Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.'" - Luke 23:24 NIV

Thoughts for Today

As He hung on the cross, suffering agonies we can't even begin to understand, Jesus looked out at the crowd. Some had lied about Him and wrongly accused Him. Some had beaten Him unmercifully. Many had shouted for His crucifixion. Peter had denied Him. Other disciples had fled. But Jesus looked beyond all that. He looked beyond their fault and with loving eyes saw their need.

He forgave them and He prayed for them.

Can we follow His example? Can we look beyond hurts and betrayal by others and see their needs? Can we pray for them without concern for ourselves? Can we forgive? Yes, with God's help, we can.

Consider this … 

Has your spouse or someone in your family hurt you? Betrayed you? Are you struggling with bitterness and unforgiveness? Ask God to help you look beyond that person's faults and see their needs. Pray for them. As you do, God will help you forgive.

If you are in an abusive situation, God does not want you to subject yourself to harm. Use wisdom to protect yourself. But don't do it out of bitterness or to seek revenge. Do it out of a heart of forgiveness and love.

Prayer

Father, I need your help. This person has hurt me so deeply. Help me see through Your eyes. Help me look beyond fault to need. Help me forgive. In Jesus' name . . .

These thoughts were drawn from …

Committed Couples: God's Plan for Marriage & the Family by Dr. Jimmy Ray Lee. Whether in a private or group setting, couples will be encouraged spiritually and romantically as they research biblical principles that affirm their vows. This book can help every married couple grow spiritually and emotionally in their relationship. It is also a great help for engaged-to-be-married couples.