Father, my eyes are bleary and I am surely weary but this time together is a must, so as I abide here with You I would ask that I would hear Your word loud and clear. Amen.
Luke 5:17-26 (<<click to read the passage)
When we think of forgiveness we tend to think of forgiving others, and that is challenging enough in and of itself. But a problem for many who strive to live their lives for Jesus is that they cannot forgive themselves.
I tell you; I am regularly encouraged by my Life Application Study Bible. Mine happens to be in the New Living Translation but it is available in multiple translations. It would be well worth the investment to purchase one and to use it daily!
Here is what it had to say about forgiveness in today’s passage.
God offers the same forgiveness given to the paralytic to all who believe. The Greek word aphiemi, translated “forgiven,” means to leave or let go, to give up a debt, to send away from oneself. Forgiveness means that a relationship has been renewed despite a wrong that has been done. But the act cannot be erased or changed. The notion of aphiemi, however, goes far beyond human forgiveness, for it includes the “putting away” of sin in two ways: (1) The law and justice are satisfied because Jesus paid the penalty that sin deserved thus sins can no longer be held against a believer. (2) The guilt caused by sin is removed and replaced with Christ’s righteousness. Believers are so forgiven that, in God’s eyes, it is as if they had never sinned. Do you carry a heavy burden for sins you have committed? Confess all to Christ – receive aphiemi – ultimate forgiveness.
Now that is encouraging! In fact, for many, it is out and out liberating! That last line says it all! Confess all to Christ – receive aphiemi – ultimate forgiveness.
Lord Jesus, help us to see ourselves through Your eyes. We would ask that You would help us to live victorious lives not defeated lives. Open our eyes that we might see the wonderous aphiemi You have for us! Amen!
Jan 22nd, 2020, Wed, 6:48 pm
