Forgiveness

What it means

If we confess our sins, God is faithful and just to forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

Why every Christian should know it

Forgiveness rests on God's character, not on the intensity of your sorrow. He is faithful, so confession is safe.

Cross references

• Psalms 32:5
• Proverbs 28:13
• Psalms 51:1-2

Pray it back

Faithful God, I bring this sin into the light instead of managing it in the dark. Cleanse me.

What it means

Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other just as God forgave you in Christ.

Why every Christian should know it

It sets the measure of Christian forgiveness. Not what the offender deserves, but what you have already received.

Cross references

• Colossians 3:13
• Matthew 18:21-22
• Luke 6:36

Pray it back

Lord, you forgave me at cost to yourself. Make me the kind of person who does the same.

What it means

Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you have, forgiving as the Lord forgave you.

Why every Christian should know it

Bearing with people comes before forgiving them. Most church wounds heal at the level of patience.

Cross references

• Ephesians 4:2
• Proverbs 19:11
• 1 Peter 4:8

Pray it back

Father, give me patience with the people I find difficult, and a short memory for offences.

What it means

As far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us. The distance chosen has no end point.

Why every Christian should know it

It is the verse for a believer who keeps digging up sins God has buried. East and west never meet.

Cross references

• Micah 7:19
• Isaiah 43:25
• Hebrews 8:12

Pray it back

Lord, you have carried my sin beyond reach. Help me stop searching for what you removed.