JANUARY 13, Matthew 6:14 &15, Proverbs 10:12

There was once an incident reported in the newspapers about two neighbours in Katong who hated each other. They quarreled and did awful things and ended up suing each other in court. It was a very ugly affair. The Bible wisely says in Proverbs 10:12, “Hatred stirreth up strifes.” This is one good example.

Let us imagine what could happen if one party had shown love instead of retaliating. As the saying goes, it takes two to fight. So, if one party could apologise and even offer a love gift, it is more likely that the other party would simmer down. Proverbs 10:12 also says, “...love covereth all sins.” A Christian must be the first to keep peace because he must follow Jesus’ example.

Jesus was beaten, mocked at and led to die on the cross, but He did not murmur or send down legions of angels to kill His enemies. God did not stop the rain or the sun from falling or shining onto those who hate Him. He is merciful, good and kind to even the vilest sinner for He loves us all. The children of God must continue to love the unlovable like Jesus does. Was Jesus angry? Did He want to “take revenge”?

What about you? When was the last time you were angry? Why were you angry? Perhaps it was a sibling or parent who misunderstood you? Or perhaps they heard wrongly and blamed you? Or perhaps you were offended by someone who does not even know he offended you! What then do you do?

Forgive and do not harbour resentment or hate.

Dear child, to be a Christian means to be forgiving. A true Christian remembers that he or she has been forgiven of so much by God the Father that he or she is prepared to forgive others of anything. Would it be easy? No, but this we must try.

Thought: God wants us to forgive as we have been forgiven.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, it is not easy to forgive others, especially my enemies. Please help me to be able to forgive and to love my enemies as You have commanded in Your Word. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.