Matthew 6:12 (NKJV)
And forgive us our debts, As we forgive our debtors.
Bible Commentary
Matthew 6:12 is a Bible verse from the famous Lord’s Prayer. Would you like to be promoted—either spiritually or in some other way? Forgiveness is the way to spiritual promotion in the Kingdom of God, and it is also the way to freedom in our souls.
Matthew 6:12 is a key statement from the perfect example of prayer. It is very important to note that before Jesus taught this prayer to His disciples, He first warned them against a prideful attitude. So before we lift this perfectly worded prayer up to God, let’s first become aware of the attitude in our hearts.
Matthew 6:5-9 5 “And when you pray, you shall not be like the hypocrites. For they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the corners of the streets, that they may be seen by men. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward. 6 But you, when you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly. 7 And when you pray, do not use vain repetitions as the heathen do. For they think that they will be heard for their many words.
8 “Therefore do not be like them. For your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him. 9 In this manner, therefore, pray…
Let’s shake out and shake off the prideful, judgmental and critical thoughts and attitudes we have hidden in our hearts, whether it’s toward our spouse, a co-worker or a political group. The flesh in us wants to win, to be lifted up over someone who offended or hurt us in some way.
But Christ warns us against such an attitude of haughtiness—the desire to be seen and heard before others for our own honor. That attitude is from the father of lies—not Jesus Christ.
Come with Humility
Before we pray with words, let’s come to the Father in humility—with the knowledge that He is a holy God and we are a sinner saved only by His grace. Let’s approach the throne in submission to His holiness—with a humble attitude in the righteousness of thanksgiving in our hearts.
Now then, let’s look carefully at Matthew 6:12.
And forgive us our debts, As we forgive our debtors.
There is a specific order here. We are forgiven as we forgive.
If we want to see more of God’s mercy and grace in our lives, then we must show mercy and grace to others. Have you ever felt led to show a particular kindness to someone who didn’t deserve it and when you did so, you noticed the love of God burst through?
That’s what He yearns to do on a grand scale, as we move the barriers of judgments, criticisms and resentments out of the way—from our present and our past.
From Pride to Promotion to Prosperity
Lord, forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
With each new mercy we release to someone, we in turn receive mercy from On High. Try it and see. Promotion comes from within. Jesus said the Kingdom of God is within us (Luke 17:21). We have the power within ourselves to be promoted, to prosper and be free and healthy.
What are we waiting for? Let’s ask God to show us where we need to forgive, where we need to submit to His love and mercy, and release the prideful attitudes and judgments that are holding us back.
It is the Light of Christ that shines upon the darkness hidden in our hearts. Don’t be afraid. It is the truth that sets us free—free from ourselves, free from deception, free from the prison of unforgiveness…and free from the pride that keeps us entangled in the dominion of darkness. Amen!
Remove the Dam
As the barrier of resentment and criticism is dismantled and removed, so we prosper. Suspicion and judgment is like a dam that blocks the flow of the Living Water. Let’s not let fear prevent us from moving in and occupying the Kingdom of God here on earth any longer. It’s up to us to face it head on and begin dismantling, one stick at a time.
The healing peace of the Holy Spirit is breathed upon us with each new space we make for Him. Hallelujah! Praise the Lord!!
Father, we thank You for lifting our eyes above our enemies round about. Grant us the grace we need to forgive others so Your love can burst through in unprecedented and marvelous ways–personally, regionally, nationally and globally. In Christ’s Name we pray. Amen!
Study the Bible verse of Matthew 6:12, and be free and healthy in your heart and soul. Amen!
Daily Prayer
