And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. (Matthew 6:12 NIV) The entire message of the Gospel is based on God’s love and forgiveness for humanity, as revealed through His Son, Jesus Christ. Therefore, it may seem a little strange that Chapter 6 of “Our Father: A Personal Journey of Discovery into the Lord’s Prayer,” which is based on this petition in the Lord’s Prayer, is the shortest of the seven chapters. In addressing this topic…..
And lead us not into temptation,but deliver us from the evil one. (Matthew 6:13 NIV) Today’s Scripture is the focus in the seventh and final chapter of my book, “Our Father: A Personal Journey of Discovery into the Lord’s Prayer.” It’s taken awhile for me to write about each chapter, due to life’s events over recent times. I want to sincerely thank each of you for your patience and understanding. I have needed some time to attend to personal matters……
As I have spent time mulling over this topic, and seeking to know what God says about it, I have become more aware of the importance of forgiveness, and the liberty that God intends for His people to walk in, as a result of living in it. – Renee Noseworthy, “Our Father: A Personal Journey of Discovery into the Lord’s Prayer,” P. 132
Here’s an analogy that shows how living in unforgiveness can affect our lives… Picture yourself trying to walk forward into your future, with your head turned back over your shoulder to keep looking behind you, as you attempt to walk forward at the same time. The result is not positive. If we stay focused on what is behind us (the past) rather than what is before us (the future), we will stagger and stumble and bump into things that God…..
Then Jesus declared, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty. (John 6:35 NIV) Jesus is the spiritual daily bread that we need. Because of Him, we never need to hunger or thirst. He invites us to come and receive the nourishment that He freely gives us, that will give us life for all of eternity.
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” (Matthew 11: 28-30 NIV) Whenever I have accepted this offer from the Lord, and allowed Him to carry the heaviest part of my burden, I have experienced the peace…..
“Give us today our daily bread.” (Matthew 6:11 NIV) What do you think ‘our daily bread’ means in this passage? I used to think that our request to God in this petition referred to our physical food only. Now, I believe that when we ask God to give us our daily bread that we are asking Him to give us everything we need to live; physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Matthew 4:4 NIV says, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live…..
So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. (Isaiah 41:10 NIV) I had intended to write seven consecutive blogs about “Our Father: A Personal Journey of Discovery into the Lord’s Prayer.” However, there has been so much taking place in my life over recent months that I’ve been sharing a little about this part of…..
Let me start by saying how honored and privileged I am to be able to share God’s working in my life. I was born into a Christian family – both parents were very involved in the church that we attended as a family. This became a valuable part of my life. I was taught Christian values and I endeavored to live by what was expected of me. The expectations were high; one’s I felt I could not reach the mark……
In this difficult season of life, there are two Scriptures that have given me encouragement, hope and strength. I’d like to share them with you today. They are… No temptation [trial] has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it. (1 Cor. 10:13 ESV) Blessed is…..