Matthew Chapter Eighteen.

In verses one through four, Jesus tells the disciples the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven is humble like a little child. He also told them in order to see the Kingdom of Heaven, they must turn from their sin and become like a child. Although a child is referenced within these verses, we can interpret it as someone that is new to the faith or “a babe in Christ”. This reference is solidified in verses five and six which tell us that welcoming a child in the name of Jesus is welcoming Him; and anyone who causes the child to sin is better off dead. Friend, we must welcome the babes in Christ with open arms by showing them Him and leading them to Him. We must also be very intentional in our walks with Christ when claiming to be His children. We have to be careful not to allow our lifestyles to cause people to sin and/or abandon/reject God. There should be no confusion as to whether you serve God or Satan when people analyze you and your lifestyle.

In verses 12 through 14, we read the parable of the lost sheep. Just as the shepherd left his entire flock to seek out that one lost sheep, our Shepherd seeks out the lost sheep. He brings us back into His Kingdom. God does not give up on us; He does not leave us lonely. He cares about His children and is willing to come after us. {Side note: when you hear the phrase, “He left the 99 to find the one”, this is the parable that is being referenced.}

The topic for verses 15 through 35 is forgiveness. Friend, forgiveness is not a suggestion, but it is a command from God. We, as believers, must forgive instead of holding grudges. Why do we carry around hurt and pain from past situations for so long instead of seeking forgiveness? When approaching someone so that you can forgive them, it is not a time to blame, shame, or “let it all out”. It is a time to let your heart speak, release the emotions/pain, and free yourself! I want to encourage you to search your heart for any unforgiveness that resides within it. We tend to think that we are always right when in all actuality, we are wrong at times. Apologies are not just for people who have committed the wrong; they are freeing agents for the people who were wronged. Apologize even if it wasn’t fully “your fault”. Forgive, Be free. And move forward.

We must live with humility, sensitivity, compassion, discipline, and forgiveness.