Is there really a relationship between faith and forgiveness?

Can we have one without the other?

Forgiveness is never a fun topic but an essential one.

In today’s S.O.A.P (scripture, observation, application, prayer) journaling, we will meditate on scripture that speaks to both.

Scripture

²⁴ Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. ²⁵ And whenever you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against anyone, so that your Father also who is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.

Mark 11:24-25

Observation

Faith is an essential element of our prayers.

It is pointless not to believe God can grant us what we pray for.

We get to play an active role in the the manifestation of our requests as we approach the throne room with expectancy.

Unforgiveness however, can be a snare for us. It blocks our blessings.

Jesus makes it crystal clear that He requires us to forgive.

He gives us the reason as well which reminds us that we are recipients of ultimate forgiveness.

We all depend on a God who forgives time and again.

Ultimately making our forgiveness our reasonable response.

Application

This is timeless and unquestionably applicable scripture for us today and always.

We have to pray faith-filled prayers, eliminating all semblance of doubt because the God we pray too is all powerful.

What can He not do?

When we allow doubt to creep in, we ought to ask ourselves if our gaze has shifted off of Him and unto ourselves.

We must remember that His job is the outcome whilst our job is simply to believe.

And, it is our job to keep believing.

It is wise for us to take verse 25 as a command, not a suggestion.

We must live un-offendable lives as believers and train ourselves to be very quick at forgiveness.

Knowing that unforgiveness hinders blessings is more than enough reason for us to rush to extend it.

Prayer – Faith and Forgiveness

My God and Father,
I thank You for Your unchanging Word.
Thank You for being such a forgiving God.
Gentle Jesus, thank You for being and giving
me the perfect blueprint for forgiveness.
I want to always follow your example and 
obey your command. 
Holy Spirit, help me to process all my 
emotions through You first; responding up,
not out at people. Help me to process anger
quickly and move from that place to forgiveness,
kindness and love. Remind me that You dwell
within me therefore I already have the Fruit 
needed to live like Christ.
Point out any area of unforgiveness still in me
and so that I release myself of that hindrance
and fully embraced the blessed life.
In Jesus's name,
Amen.

Song Recommendation

Today, we are recommending none other than Crowder.

This song reminds us that we are forgiven.

It is His grace that forgives us. Let’s follow our Master and forgive as well.

Enjoy…