“For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.
Matthew 6:14-15
Jesus amplifies the need for forgiveness in these verses. Christians are to forgive on the basis of how the Father has forgiven us. We honor God as Kingdom citizens when we extend forgiveness to others.
Jesus also warns that when we withhold pardon from others our Father will not forgive us. Let us interject that Jesus is not speaking of forgiveness as it pertains to salvation. He is speaking of forgiveness as it projects to sanctification and spiritual growth. We will never grow and mature in our Christian faith as long as we hold on to un-forgiveness. It’s just not possible.
To put it succinctly, forgiveness is not optional for the Believer in Christ. Learn to forgive. It’s not always easy, but, you will never regret extending forgiveness.
We should pray according to the pattern Jesus has given us in order to deepen our relationship with the Father. Believer, pray daily, regularly, concisely, and faithfully. What a mighty God we serve!
Tony French
mrtonyfrench 
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