Day 143/260: Read Matthew 18

In His parable of the king settling accounts with his servants, Jesus teaches about forgiveness. One servant who owed a great sum was brought before him, and the king forgave him the debt the servant was unable to pay. The servant then went out and found a man who owed him a much smaller amount, but refused to grant him the same forgiveness. Of course, the king recanted his earlier forgiveness and required the repayment of the large sum.

We owe more than we could possibly pay the Father. However, if we are faithful to Him and treat our fellow man in the same way that we want to be treated, forgiving one another, He will forgive us that debt. We will not have to pay.

Notice the motivation behind the king’s forgiveness of the servant. “Then the master of that servant was moved with compassion, released him, and forgave him the debt.” God has compassion upon mankind—you and me. He does not desire punishment; He wants to have fellowship with us and reward us for faithfulness.

When you have dealings with your fellow man, show compassion on him. Forgive him. Treat him the same way you want God to treat you.

Memory (Fill in the blanks)

Matthew 16:26. “For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole _____________, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his _____________?”

Pray

Pray for greater compassion toward your friends and toward your enemies.