Amazing Words of Forgiveness

He knelt down and shouted, "Lord, don't blame them for what they have done." Then he died. (Acts 7:60)

A prayer for you: Dear Lord, let us have the love to be able to forgive those who cause us harm. Let us see them in as much need of love as we are and share a compassion and mercy for them as we need ourselves.

I am not the only person who struggles with this episode. It’s all well and good our Saviour able to utter those words of mercy on those crucifying Him on a tree. It’s alright for Him, He’s the Messiah. For Stephen to utter these as his final words on earth whilst being battered to death by his accusers really points out that what the Teacher can do his students are capable of doing it as well. When I’m bombarded from left, right and centre from forces and people I know my natural reaction is to retaliate or hibernate. To have the Spirit-filled character of Stephen and even graciously look to God to forgive the tormentors is a step of maturity that I would love to attain. To be so focussed on God that the reality of spiritual warfare having nothing to do with personality and everything to do with spiritual forces at work points me to a desire to share this ability and overcome evil with good.

For His Name’s Sake
Shalom
da man cd

Say Grace

Be gracious in your speech. The goal is to bring out the best in others in a conversation, not put them down, not cut them out. (Colossians 4:6)

What’s gracious speech like? Ever had those conversations where you could get more sense from a brick wall? Patiently you let the other know that you have heard them and you understand what they are saying … yet it has no effect at all. This is not the message that it’s alright because they’ll understand … maybe they never will. This is a thought to suggest that even in these trying circumstances, look to bring the best out of the other and at least you’ll end the conversation in peace. Then you can go get that much needed drink!

So the wonder of words. With the above statement you might get the impression that I’m referring to a stiff shot of something alcoholic and in a very real way I am referring to strong Spirit. That for me is the wonder of words and where it can lead to and where we can take it. The verse in question says different things in different versions, which on the one hand is useful and on the other can be left open to all sorts of interpretations. What I do get from this verse though is the need to make the most of our time and use every conversation to express the love of God to others. It’s to be expected with people who have yet to acknowledge God’s grace that their approach may not be positive to Christ and issues to do with Him, but out ability to still respond from grace and show them what He looks like through our conversation and lifestyle can leave an impact.

For His Name’s Sake
Shalom
da man cd