Neville Turley

“If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:8-9 (NIV)

The fifth petition of our Lord’s Prayer “and forgive us our debts, as we have also forgiven our debtors” focuses both on our relationship with God and with each other.

Our sinful human nature ensures we are constantly in a state of sin and need to turn to God for forgiveness.  One has only to look at the Bible’s instructions for Christian living (Ephesians 4:25-32) to realize just how much and how often we grieve the Holy Spirit of God.

There is an ancient Scottish proverb that says “Open confession is good for the soul”.  Today as we commemorate Ascension Day, there is no better time to open up to the Risen Saviour, confessing our sins and seeking his forgiveness.

Great men of faith have never hesitated to confess their sinful state and ask God’s forgiveness. “Go away from me” said Peter, falling at Jesus knees.  “I am a sinful man.” (Luke 5:8) “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners - of whom I am the worst”, confessed Paul. (1 Timothy 1:15)

In this petition Jesus taught us that we must do the same. Then he coupled our relationship with God to our relationship with each other. “Ask God” says Jesus, “to forgive you as you have forgiven others.” 

This is the one petition which Jesus further clarified immediately after teaching his disciples to pray. “For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.” (Matthew 6:14-15 (NIV))

No matter how badly we have been wronged, we must forgive before we can hope to be forgiven.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, forgive us for any word, action or conduct of ours that has grieved you.  May the Holy Spirit empower us to forgive those who have caused us heartbreak and suffering. May our behaviour towards them reflect our love for you, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen