Listen to this devotion
Forgiven and Free
In the Word
Blessed is the one whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered (Psalm 32:1).
Of the Word
The prison chaplain visited the death row inmate whose life would soon end because of his crimes. As they talked, the inmate confessed to beatings, bombings, and murders. The chaplain quietly but firmly assured him that God was willing to forgive every crime. Incredulously the inmate cried, “All of them? How? Why?”
The chaplain told the story of God’s love for all men, the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross, His death and resurrection. “God assures you through His Word that His grace is for you, so you can believe in Jesus and confess your crimes to Him, knowing you are forgiven. In Jesus Christ, you are a free man.”
No matter what the sin, God is big enough to forgive it. Something perceived as a “small” sin (telling a white lie, wasting company time with long lunch hours) or something thought to be a “big” sin (embezzlement, abortion, addiction) all disappear in God’s sight through His grace and mercy. The Lord redeems the life of his servants; none of those who take refuge in him will be condemned (Psalm 34:22).
Walking with my Lord
Lord, I have sinned against You and against others. Forgive me and help me to live according to Your holy will. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Mustard Seed: Comfort from the Psalms. Authors: Marcia Gomulka & Myrna Lou Meyer. 4/30 ©2009 Lutheran Women’s Missionary League, 801 Seminary Place Ste. L010, St. Louis, MO 63105. www.lwml.org
Scripture quotations are from The ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
