Blessings Restored

Moses:  ² “If at that time you and your children return to the LORD your God, and if you obey with all your heart and all your soul all the commands I have given you today, ³ then the LORD your God will restore your fortunes. He will have mercy (compassion) on you and gather you back from all the nations where He has scattered you…. ⁶ The LORD your God will change (circumcise) your heart and the hearts of all your descendants, so that you will love Him with all your heart and soul and so you may live!... ⁹ The LORD your God will then make you successful (abundantly prosperous) in everything you do. He will give you many children and numerous livestock, and He will cause your fields to produce abundant harvests, for the LORD will again delight in being good to you as He was to your ancestors. ¹⁰ The LORD your God will delight in you if you obey His voice and keep the commands and decrees written in this Book of Instruction, and if you turn to the LORD your God with all your heart and soul….

¹⁵ Now listen! Today I am giving you a choice between life and death, between prosperity (good life) and disaster (death). ¹⁶ For I command you this day to love the LORD your God and to keep His commands, decrees, and regulations by walking in His ways. If you do this, you will live and multiply, and the LORD your God will bless you and the land you are about to enter and occupy. ¹⁷ But if your heart turns away and you refuse to listen, and if you are drawn away to serve and worship other gods, ¹⁸ then I warn you now that you will certainly be destroyed (eternal death, depression, destruction). You will not live a long, good life in the land you are crossing the Jordan to occupy.

¹⁹ Today I have given you the choice between life and death, between blessings and curses. Now I call on heaven and earth to witness the choice you make. Oh, that you would choose life, so that you and your descendants might live! ²⁰ You can make this choice by loving the LORD your God, obeying Him, and committing yourself firmly (cleave, cling, hold on) to Him. This is the key to your life. And if you love and obey the LORD, you will live long in the land the LORD swore to give your ancestors Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.”  Deuteronomy 30:2-3, 6, 9-10, 15-20 (NLT)

In Deuteronomy 30, Moses ends his farewell address he began to Israel starting in Deuteronomy 1 on the borders of God’s Promised Land (see Deuteronomy 1:1-5). Moses once again strongly instructed the people to LOVE the living LORD God and OBEY the living God’s moral commandments (see Deuteronomy 30:2-3, 6, 8, 10-11, 16). In fact, Moses repeatedly taught Israel throughout Deuteronomy (also known as “Second Law”) to love and obey the living God and His moral commandments from your whole heart, mind, and soul (e.g., see Deuteronomy 4:29; Deuteronomy 6:4-6; Deuteronomy 10:12-13, 20; see also, Matthew 22:37; John 14:15; Revelation 12:17; Revelation 14:12). Moses knew that our wholehearted love and obedience to the living God and His righteous ways lead to God’s blessings, restoration, and good life (Deuteronomy 30:3, 6, 9, 15-16, 20; see also Deuteronomy 5:33; Deuteronomy 6:2, 18; Deuteronomy 12:28). God is life and blessedness (Deuteronomy 30:20; see also Deuteronomy 4:1; Deuteronomy 8:3; Job 12:10; John 5:26; Acts 17:25, 28).

The connection is obvious: if you turn from your sins and rebellion to wholehearted love and obedience to God and His moral commandments, you will find and enjoy life (Deuteronomy 30:15-16; see also; Ecclesiastes 12:13-14). Even more, when you love and obey the living God and His righteous commands, not only do you receive God’s abundant blessings, but you also receive His Presence as the living God comes and lives with you (e.g., see Leviticus 26:1-3, 11-12; Deuteronomy 28:1-14; Jeremiah 7:23; Jeremiah 11:4; Jeremiah 24:7; John 14:15-17, 21, 23-24; 2 Corinthians 6:16). Throughout the Old Testament and the New Testament, God’s abundant blessings and Presence (Holy Spirit) are all linked to love and obedience to the living God and His righteous ways (e.g., John 15:10; Galatians 6:7-10; James 1:22-25; 1 John 2:5; 1 John 5:2-3). In other words, there is a Spiritual union with the living God when you love and follow His good ways (e.g., see John 17:21).

The living LORD God wants to do good for you and your family and not evil (Deuteronomy 30:5, 9; see also Deuteronomy 6:3, 18, 24). Besides, everyone who seeks the living God and does what is right and good are children of LORD God, while those who seek wickedness, evil, and sin prove they are far away from God (e.g., see Hebrews 13:16; 1 John 2:29; 1 John 3:6-10; 3 John 1:11). However, Moses taught the people that if your heart turns away from serving the living God and His righteous ways and are drawn to worship other gods, your life will lead to death and destruction (Deuteronomy 30:17-18; e.g., see also Exodus 20:3-4; Leviticus 26:1-3, 14-39; Deuteronomy 28:15-29:28). Those who reject and disobey the living LORD God bring punishment and wrath upon themselves (e.g., see Deuteronomy 29:19-20).

Amazingly, Moses looked down through the human history and predicted Israel would turn away from wholeheartedly loving the LORD God (idolatry) and obeying His moral commandments (rebellion) (e.g., see Deuteronomy 4:25-28; Deuteronomy 28:45-46; Deuteronomy 29:18-29). Such verses as Deuteronomy 28:25, 32-33, 36, 38,41-42, and 53 predict historical facts now recorded in Jewish history, both sacred and secular. Deuteronomy 28:62 foretells how not only the Jewish people but all people receive God’s wrath and scattering because of their reckless indulgence of evil, idolatry, and rebellion against God and His moral commandments – His Voice (e.g., see Deuteronomy 29:18-19, 28; Ezekiel 3:20-21; Ezekiel 18:24-26 Galatians 6:8; Revelation 22:14-15). The commandments of God is the Voice of God, and He expects everyone to obey His Voice (commandments).

The living God brought the punishment and curses of Deuteronomy 28 and 29 as well as Leviticus 26 in 722-721 BC and 586 BC when He allowed the Assyrian and Babylonian armies to defeat, destroy, and scatter Israel (Jews) throughout the world because of their repeated idolatry, rebellion, and disobedience and the land finally enjoyed the Sabbath rest (Leviticus 26:33-35; Deuteronomy 28:49-52, 64-65; see also 2 Kings 17:5-23; 2 Kings 25:1-26). Moreover, the Roman emperor Hadrian and Titus oppressed and ravaged the Jewish people in the first century A.D. as predicted in Deuteronomy 28. Finally, the Jewish people suffered many of the curses and diseases during the Middle Ages as predicted in Deuteronomy 28. The living God was using His punishment and discipline of His people to lead to their restoration and repentance – turning from sin and turning God with love and obedience (e.g., see Hebrews 12:10-11).

Moses also rightly predicted Israel’s future salvation, restoration, and blessings when they wholeheartedly returned and sought the living God and obeyed His commands after their idolatry and rebellion (Deuteronomy 30:1-5; see also see Leviticus 26:40-45; Deuteronomy 4:29-30; Deuteronomy 11:26-28:  1 Kings 8:47-50; 2 Chronicles 15:4; Nehemiah 1:9; Isaiah 55:6-7; Joel 2:12-13). The living God abundantly blesses those who wholeheartedly seek and obey Him (e.g., see Deuteronomy 28:1-14; 1 Chronicles 28:9; Hebrews 11:6). If you seek the living God from your whole heart, you will find Him, find abundant life, and God’s goodness (Deuteronomy 30:9-10; see also 2 Chronicles 7:14; Jeremiah 29:13-14; Amos 5:4, 6, 14-15). Even more, the living LORD God is gracious, kind, loving, compassionate, and forever merciful to those who turn away from evil and sin and turn to Him in faithfulness and obedience (Deuteronomy 30:3; see also e.g., Deuteronomy 4:31; Exodus 34:6-7; Numbers 14:17-18; Psalm 145:8-9; Nahum 1:3; James 5:11).

Still more amazing, Moses looked down through the ages and predicted the coming of the Holy Spirit of God to change and circumcise the people’s hearts (Deuteronomy 30:6; see also Deuteronomy 10:16; Jeremiah 4:4). In reality, the heart is the very source of all your sins because God had to give Israel the will and power to love and obey Him. Moses predicted that when the people REPENTED and TURNED from their rebellion to the living God and His moral commandments, the living LORD God would perform a spiritual “operation” and circumcise your heart and the hearts of your descendants to love and obey Him with all your heart, all your mind, and all your soul (Deuteronomy 30:6; see also Deuteronomy 6:4-6). In other words, Moses predicted the coming of God’s Holy Spirit to give God’s people new Spiritual life – a new heart, soul, and mind! Just as physical circumcision identified one as belonging to the Abrahamic covenant, spiritual circumcision would be the seal of membership into God’s family – the new Israel (see Genesis 17:13-14; Romans 2:28-29; Ephesians 1:13). When you repent (turn from evil and turn to God), the living God by His Holy Spirit performs a spiritual operation that bring you a new heart, new soul, and a new life (e.g., see Deuteronomy 10:16; Jeremiah 24:6-7; Jeremiah 31:31-34; Jeremiah 32:39-40; Ezekiel 11:19; Ezekiel 36:26-29; Joel 2:12-13; John 3:3-8). In other words, God will come live inside you with the Helper – the Holy Spirit – to help you love and obey His righteous ways – inward spiritual renewal (see John 14:16-17, 26; John 15:26; John 16:7; Acts 2:38-40)!

Moses made clear that finding new and true life is NOT a difficult decision, too far off, placed in the heavens, nor beyond the sea (see Deuteronomy 30:11-14). Amazingly, the Apostle Paul of the New Testament agreed with Moses’ teaching from Deuteronomy 30 (e.g., see Romans 10:6-10). Both Moses and the Apostle Paul agree that no one must go up to heaven or across the sea to another country, because the living God freely gives everyone life by choosing Him! Incredibly, the Lord Jesus Christ taught the same message of Moses and the Apostle Paul: repent of your sins, love His Father the living LORD God with all your heart (faith), and obey God’s moral commandments (Deuteronomy 30:15-16; see also e.g., Genesis 15:6; Matthew 4:17; Matthew 6:33; Matthew 22:37; John 14:15). Repentance, love, and obedience to GOD BRINGS LIFE, restoration, and blessings (see Deuteronomy 30:15-16, 20). Through our love and obedience to the living God, we live, move, and have our being (see Acts 17:28). Life depends on your absolute allegiance to God!

Some people will argue and say, “I only worship and accept God but not Jesus!” The Holy Scriptures declare that the Lord Jesus Christ is God (e.g., see John 1:1-5, 14, 16, 18; John 20:28; Romans 9:5; Hebrews 1:1-3). In the Lord Jesus Christ is the fullness of God (e.g., see Colossians 1:19; Colossians 2:9-10). The Lord Jesus Christ is One with His Father, the living LORD God (e.g., Deuteronomy 6:4; John 10:30; John 14:9-10; John 17:11, 21-23). Moreover, the Lord Jesus Christ is the visible image of the invisible God, and the Lord Jesus Christ is the exact likeness of the unseen living LORD God, His Father (e.g., see 2 Corinthians 4:4; Philippians 2:6; Colossians 1:15-16; Hebrews 1:3). Finding restoration, blessings, and life also means fully accepting, believing, and worshipping the living LORD God’s only begotten Son, Jesus the Messiah (e.g., Mark 1:1; John 8:24; John 11:25; John 14:6; John 20:30-31). Just as the living LORD God has life, God’s Son also has and gives life to those who love and obey Him (e.g., see John 1:4; John 5:26; John 6:57; Acts 3:15; 1 John 5:11, 20; Revelation 1:18).

The Holy Scriptures teaches that you must believe and obey BOTH the living LORD God and His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, to have life (e.g., see John 11:25; John 12:44-45; John 14:1, 6, 15; 1 John 3:24). Life comes when you love and accept the only true God and His Son the Lord Jesus Christ, who He sent to earth (e.g., see John 3:15-16, 36; John 6:40, 47; John 17:3, 8, 21, 23; 1 John 5:12-13, 20). The Lord Jesus Christ lives in His Father the living LORD God, and the living LORD God lives in His Son as One (e.g., see Deuteronomy 6:4; Mark 12:29; John 14:7, 9-11; John 17:3; 1 Corinthians 8:4). The living LORD God of heaven and earth graciously sent His only begotten Son Jesus to be the Savior of the world (e.g., see Matthew 1:21; Luke 2:10-11; John 1:29; John 3:16-17; 1 John 4:14; Romans 10:9). Everyone who believes and accepts Jesus as the Son of the living LORD God has the true God living in them, and they live in God (e.g., see 1 John 2:23; 1 John 4:15).

After Moses’ farewell address, he turned the people of Israel over to Joshua to lead God’s people into His Promised Land (see Deuteronomy 31:1-8; Deuteronomy 34:9). Then, Moses blessed the people (see Deuteronomy 33), and then the living God buried Moses’ body in an undisclosed location (see Deuteronomy 34:5-8). 

Some biblical scholars see Deuteronomy 30 as a reference to the Lord Jesus Christ’s second coming at the end of the age. The Holy Scriptures predict the future restoration, blessings, and regathering of Israel as a nation (Deuteronomy 30:1-10; see also, e.g., Jeremiah 29:14; Jeremiah 32:37; Ezekiel 34:13; Ezekiel 36:24). Moreover, some biblical scholars see Deuteronomy 30 as the restoration Israel and their land of Palestine (see Deuteronomy 30:5, 9; Amos 9:11-15); a work of grace in the people’s hearts (see Deuteronomy 10:16; Deuteronomy 30:6; Jeremiah 31:31-34); and judgment of Israel’s enemies (see Deuteronomy 30:7). It is important to note that Israel has never taken the land under the unconditional Abrahamic Covenant, nor has Israel possessed the whole land (e.g., see Genesis 15:18).

References

Amplified Bible (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1987).

ESV Study Bible, English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2008).

Ryrie Study Bible: New American Standard Bible (Chicago, IL: Moody, 1995).

The Living Bible Paraphrase (Tyndale House, 1971).

Zondervan NIV Study Bible (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2008).

Wiersbe, Warren W. Bible Exposition Commentary – Old Testament (Victor Books, 1989).

Repent and Live!

¹ “Is anyone thirsty? Come and drink — even if you have no money! Come, take your choice of (priceless, spiritual) wine or milk — it’s all free! ² Why spend your money on food (bread) that does not give you strength? Why pay for food (bread) that does you no good? Listen to Me (the living LORD God), and you will eat what is good. You will enjoy the finest food (bread). ³ “Come to Me (the living LORD God) with your ears wide open. Listen (pay attention, hear), and you will find life. I will make an everlasting covenant with you. I will give you all the unfailing love I promised to David….”

⁶ Seek the LORD while you can find Him. Call on Him now while He is near. ⁷ Let the wicked change (forsake, abandon) their ways and banish the very thought of doing wrong. Let them turn to the LORD that He may have mercy on them. Yes, turn to our God, for He will forgive (pardon) generously.

⁸ “My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts,” says the LORD. “And My ways are far beyond anything you could imagine. ⁹ For just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so My ways are higher than your ways and My thoughts higher than your thoughts. ¹⁰ The rain and snow come down from the heavens and stay on the ground to water the earth. They cause the grain to grow, producing seed for the farmer and bread for the hungry. ¹¹ It is the same with My Word. I (the living LORD God) send it out, and it always produces fruit. It will accomplish all I want it to, and it will prosper everywhere I send it….” Isaiah 55:1-3, 6-11 (NLT)

The beauty of the true and living God is that He accepts and loves ALL people – black, white, male, female, young and old – who turn to Him and His Son Jesus by faith (belief) and repentance (turning from sins) (e.g., see John 1:12-13; John 3:16-17; Romans 3:30; Romans 10:12-13; 1 Corinthians 12:13; Galatians 3:26-29; Colossians 3:11). God extends an open invitation and welcome for ALL people to come to Him and His Son Jesus to receive His FREE and unending mercy, faithful love, and spiritual blessings (grace) (Isaiah 55:1; see also Proverbs 9:5; Isaiah 41:17).

In Isaiah 55, the living God through His prophet invite ALL PEOPLE to come to Him and find lasting life, peace, and joy (see Isaiah 55:1-3, 6, 12). The living God sends out His great invitation to all people: “Come, everyone who are thirsty, come to the waters; and you without money, come, …. buy wine and milk without money and without cost!... Listen carefully to Me, and eat what is good, … Pay attention and come to Me; listen, so that you will live….” (Isaiah 55:1-3, HCSB; see also Proverbs 9:5). In the Holy Scriptures, the Lord Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit are defined as spiritual nourishments graciously given by the living LORD God without money and cost to everyone that comes to Him (e.g., see John 4:10-14; John 6:27, 35; John 7:37-39; Ephesians 5:18; Revelation 21:6; Revelation 22:17).   

When you come to the living LORD God, He sends you His Son Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit to give you a new spiritual life and spiritual nourishment for your minds, hearts, and souls as well as salvation and eternal life (Isaiah 55:1-2; see also Isaiah 1:19; John 6:27; John 7:37; Ephesians 5:18; Revelation 21:6-7; Revelation 22:17). Coming to the living God by faith and repentance bring His Son Jesus Christ and Holy Spirit to live inside and transform your hearts (Isaiah 55:1; see also Isaiah 44:3; John 4:10-14; John 7:37-39; Acts 2:33). The Holy Spirit gives all faithful and obedient believers of God and His Son Jesus blessing upon blessing (e.g., see John 1:16; John 14:15-17, 21), including a new and eternal life (e.g., see John 3:3-8); adoption into God’s family (e.g., see John 1:12-13; Galatians 3:26); union and reconciliation with God (e.g., see 2 Corinthians 5:17-21); and peace of mind and heart (e.g., see John 14:27; Romans 5:1-5).

But to receive all God’s blessings and new life, you must FIRST REPENT! You may ask what repentance is. Repentance meaning turning from your sins – physically and mental – and turning to the living and true LORD God and His Son Jesus with all faithfulness, love, and obedience (Isaiah 55:3; see also Leviticus 18:5; Psalm 78:1; Proverbs 4:4; John 14:15-21; Acts 20:21). Sadly, sin and disobedience stop God’s spiritual blessings and grace from flowing into your life. However, the living God gives new spiritual life, abundant blessings, and eternal covenantal love when you wholeheartedly REPENT of your sins and turn to Him and His Son Jesus with faith and obedience (Isaiah 55:3; see also Isaiah 59:21; Jeremiah 32:40; Ezekiel 37:26; 1 Peter 2:2). True repentance demands a changed lifestyle and mindset (e.g., see Isaiah 1:16-17; Isaiah 30:15; Isaiah 59:20; Acts 3:19).

SEEK AND LOVE the living LORD God with your whole heart while you can find Him and call upon His Name to find salvation and life (Isaiah 55:6; see also 2 Chronicles 15:2; Jeremiah 29:13-14; Hosea 3:5; Amos 5:4, 6, 14; Isaiah 45:22; Isaiah 58:9; Acts 17:27). The living God and His Son Jesus will graciously love, accept, and protect you (e.g., see Psalm 50:5; Jeremiah 29:11-14). Yes, the living God punishes sins and wickedness, but He also stands ready to quickly forgive you when you turn to Him in true faith and repentance (Isaiah 55:7, e.g., see Deuteronomy 4:29; Psalm 34:22; Isaiah 40:2; Isaiah 43:25; Isaiah 54:81, 10; Ezekiel 18:27-28, 32). The living God freely pardons all your sins, heals your hurts, and restores your life when you REPENT and TURN to Him in obedience and love (Isaiah 55:7; see also Psalm 103:3, 8-9; Lamentations 3:22-23; 1 John 1:9). The living God generously forgives all your sins and give you blessings and mercy when you turn to Him in faith, repentance, and obedience (e.g., see Exodus 34:6; Psalm 36:5; Psalm 103:7, 11, 17-18, 20; Isaiah 26:9; Lamentations 3:22-23, 25; John 14:15). Therefore, cast off and turn away from your wicked and evil deeds and banish sin and wrongdoing from your minds and hearts (Isaiah 55:7; see also 2 Chronicles 7:13-14; Isaiah 1:15-19; Isaiah 44:22). COME TO GOD and you will find life, heart satisfaction, and true love (see Isaiah 55:1-3)! The living LORD God asks you “Come, everyone who is thirsty, come to the waters; and you without money, come, buy, and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost!” (see Isaiah 55:1, HCSB).

Some may wonder how the living God can forgive all your sins and wrongdoing. The Holy Scriptures remind us that God’s ways of salvation, love, and forgiveness are beyond your ways of understanding (Isaiah 55:8-9; see also Exodus 15:26; Exodus 34:7; Psalm 103:11). Yet, the living God has revealed true life and salvation through His Holy Scriptures that He wants everyone to obey from your hearts (Isaiah 55:10-11; see also Deuteronomy 29:29). The Holy Scriptures point to the living God’s Son, Jesus Christ our Savior (Isaiah 55:10-11; e.g., see also John 5:39-40). Jesus is the Word of God – the Logos (e.g., see John 1:1-5, 14). Faith and obedience to Jesus bring wisdom, a transformed heart, and a better life (e.g., see 1 Corinthians 1:30; 2 Timothy 3:15-17). Therefore, PAY ATTENTION AND OBEY THE HOLY SCRIPTURES to find life and wisdom (Isaiah 55:2-3; see also Deuteronomy 4:6; Psalm 119:98-99).

The living God and His Word are eternal and always produce a prosperous life and bear abundant fruit (Isaiah 55:10-11; see also Isaiah 40:8; Matthew 5:18; Matthew 24:35; Hebrews 4:12). With your faithfulness to the living God and OBEDIENCE to His Holy Word, you will FINALLY find good life, great joy, and heart peace (Isaiah 55:12; see also Isaiah 26:3; Jeremiah 3:22-23; John 14:15-17, 21, 23-24; John 15:9-10; 1 John 2:3-5; 1 John 5:3; Revelation 14:12). This miracle of your new life filled with joy and inner peace will make the God’s Name (Yahweh) very great and be an everlasting sign of God’s power and love (Isaiah 55:13; see also Matthew 5:13-16).

NO ONE can find an abundant and prosper life when you live and walk in disobedience and defiance to the living God and His Holy Scriptures (e.g., see Deuteronomy 29:19; Proverbs 4:4; Jeremiah 7:24). The living God will not forgive and pardon continued disobedience to Him and His Holy Scriptures (e.g., see Deuteronomy 29:20). Such continual disobedience and defiance anger the living God and brings the living God’s curses, punishment, and eternal death (e.g., see Deuteronomy 28:15; Deuteronomy 29:20-21, 27). There is NO peace and happiness for the wicked (e.g., see Isaiah 3:11; Isaiah 48:22; Isaiah 57:21). Sin kills but repentance brings new life!

References

Amplified Bible (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1987).

ESV Study Bible, English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2008).

NLT Study Bible (Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Pub., 2008).

The Living Bible Paraphrase (Tyndale House, 1971).

Forgiving Others

Jesus: ⁹ Pray like this: Our Father in heaven, may Your Name be kept holy (hallowed, honored, respected). ¹⁰ May Your Kingdom come soon. May Your will be done on earth, as it is in heaven. ¹¹ Give us today (daily) the food (bread) we need, ¹² and forgive us our sins (debts), as we have forgiven those who sin (trespassed) against us. ¹³ And do not let us yield to temptation (and testing) but rescue us from the evil one (all evil and sinfulness).

¹⁴ If you forgive those who sin (trespasses) against you, your heavenly Father will forgive you. ¹⁵ But if you refuse to forgive others, your Father will not forgive your sins (trespasses). Matthew 6:9-15 (NLT)

The living and true God, who is our heavenly Father and the Father of the Lord Jesus Christ our Savior, sees EVERYTHING – the good, the bad, and the ugly (Matthew 6:1, 4, 6, 18; see also Jeremiah 17:10; Ephesians 4:6; Hebrews 4:13). The God of heaven and earth sees and knows all – even our secret thoughts and motives (e.g., see 2 Chronicles 16:9; Psalm 33:13-15; Proverbs 5:21; Jeremiah 16:17; Jeremiah 23:24; Daniel 2:22). Because the living God sees and knows EVERYTHING, He cares for and loves you (see Matthew 6:30, 32; John 3:16). Even more, the living and true God of heaven and His Son Jesus want to bless and reward all your good deeds, obedience, and efforts for Him and for others (Matthew 6:1-2, 4-6; see also Matthew 16:27; Colossians 3:23-25). One of the best deeds you can do is to forgive others who have hurt and harmed you!

In Jesus Christ’s greatest teaching, He teaches that Him and His Father, the true and living God (Yahweh, LORD), graciously and freely forgives your sins and trespasses when we seek God’s forgiveness (Matthew 6:12; e.g., see also Psalm 32:5; Psalm 103:3; Proverbs 28:13; Luke 24:47; Acts 5:31; Acts 13:38; 1 John 1:9). Truly, the living God’s mercy, forgiveness, and faithfulness are renewed every day when we turn from sin and wholeheartedly seek His forgiveness and mercy (e.g., see Exodus 34:6; Psalm 36:5; Psalm 103:7, 17; Isaiah 26:9; Lamentations 3:22-23, 25). Part of the LORD God’s Name is forgiveness (see Exodus 34:5-7). The living God is filled with unending and eternal love, grace, mercy, forgiveness, and patience (e.g., see Exodus 34:5-7; Nehemiah 9:17; Psalm 86:15; Psalm 103:8; Psalm 111:4; Joel 2:13). Even more, the living God graciously forgives your wrongdoing, rebellion, and sin when you repent and seek His forgiveness (e.g., Psalm 78:38; Psalm 103:3; Isaiah 43:25; Daniel 9:9; 1 John 1:9).

In turn, the living God expects His people to imitate His eternal love, grace, mercy, forgiveness, and patience towards others (e.g., see Luke 6:36; Romans 13:10; Galatians 5:22-23; Ephesians 5:1-2; James 5:11). Because the living God graciously and mercifully forgives your overwhelming sins, Jesus teaches you must equally and generously forgive everyone and anyone who sin against and harm us (Matthew 6:12, 14; see also; Mark 11:25-26; Luke 6:36). The Lord Jesus Christ teaches He wants God’s people to be merciful and kind towards others, even your enemies (Matthew 5:7; see also Ephesians 4:31-32; Colossians 3:12-13; 1 John 4:11). In fact, the Lord Jesus Christ COMMANDS your endless mercy, love, and forgiveness towards others, even those who have hurt and harmed you (Matthew 18:21-22; see also Matthew 5:44-45; Matthew 6:12, 14-15; Matthew 22:39; Luke 17:3-4; John 13:34-35; John 15:17; 1 Thessalonians 4:9; 1 John 4:11). Forgiveness is part of the living God’s will (see Matthew 6:10). Specifically, the Lord Jesus Christ teaches that those who have received God’s forgiveness must also equally forgive others who have hurt and sinned against you (e.g., see Matthew 18:21-35).  Those who have genuinely repented of their sins and accepted God’s forgiveness will also genuinely forgive others! The living God, our Father and the Father of Jesus Christ, is merciful, forgiving, and kind to both the righteous and unrighteous, the good and the wicked (e.g., see Exodus 34:6-7; Luke 6:35). Therefore, the living God wants His people to follow His heavenly example and reproduce mercy, forgiveness, and goodness towards others, even your enemy (e.g., see Proverbs 25:21-22; Matthew 5:44; Luke 6:27, 36; Romans 12:20-21; Ephesians 5:1-2; James 3:17; James 5:11).

In fact, the Lord Jesus Christ teaches that before you even bring your gifts, worship, and prayers to Him and His Father, you must seek mercy, compassion, and forgiveness from your heart towards your enemies FIRST (Matthew 5:23-26; see also Mark 11:25). Even if you are own your way to court against your enemy, Jesus teaches to seek reconciliation and a settlement quickly with your enemy (Matthew 5:25-26; see also Proverbs 25:8; Luke 12:58-59; Romans 12:18). As the Lord Jesus Christ teaches, “I desire mercy, not sacrifice” (Matthew 9:13; see also Hosea 6;6; Micah 6:8; Matthew 12:7; Matthew 23:23). The living God wants His people to be kind and merciful to everyone, including your enemies (e.g., see Leviticus 19:18; Isaiah 1:17; Zechariah 7:9-10).

True forgiveness means letting go and giving up ALL resentment, hatred, bitterness, rage, and anger against your offenders (see also Ephesians 4:31-32; Colossians 3:12-13).  Even more, true forgiveness of others also means not yielding to the temptation and testing to seek revenge, payback, and retaliation against your trespassers, enemies, and offenders (Matthew 6:13; see also Leviticus 19:18; Matthew 5:39). In other words, you must resist and flee temptation to do evil for evil, insult for insult, and an eye for an eye (e.g., see Zechariah 7:9-10; Romans 12:17, 19; 1 Thessalonians 5:15; 1 Peter 2:23; 1 Peter 3:9). Sadly, the evil one wants you to “take matters into your own hands” and seek revenge against your enemies (e.g., see Proverbs 24:29). The living God NEVER wants you to do personal wrong and harm others nor seek evil for evil (e.g., see Matthew 5:38-41; James 1:13; 1 Peter 3:9).

More importantly, the Holy Scriptures teach that you are to pray and ask God to keep you from such evil temptation to seek revenge and retaliation against evildoers (e.g., see Matthew 26:41; Mark 14:38; Luke 22:40, 46; 1 Corinthians 13). Instead, the Holy Scriptures teach everyone to patiently wait for the all-powerful and all-knowing God in His righteous anger to handle such harm and hurt against you (see Deuteronomy 32:35; Proverbs 20:22; Romans 12:19). The living God, who is the Judge and King of the world, punishes the unrighteous and wick for evil and harm done to Him and towards others (e.g., see Psalm 37:33; Psalm 109:31; James 5:9; 1 Peter 1:17; 2 Peter 2:9-10). The living God is merciful and forgiving, but He will NOT let the guilty go unpunished for their sin and wickedness (e.g., Exodus 34:7; Joshua 24:19; Nahum 1:3).

Mistakenly, some people believe the Old Testament allows personal vengeance. Neither the Old Testament nor the New Testament NEVER allowed for personal and private vengeance, retaliation, and grudges without the establishment of guilt or innocence by a court of law (e.g., see also Leviticus 19:18; Matthew 5:38-42; Romans 12:17-21). From the very beginning, the living God instructed His people “‘Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against anyone among your people but love your neighbor as yourself” (see Leviticus 19:18, NIV2011). By taking personal vengeance into one’s own hands, one could wrongfully kill an innocent person. From a personal standpoint, everyone must return good for evil, love for hatred, and forgiveness for offenses and hurt (see Romans 12:9-16, 21; 1 Peter 2:11-25), and NEVER “evil for evil” (e.g., see Proverbs 20:22; Proverbs 24:29; Matthew 5:39, 44; Matthew 14:19; Romans 12:17, 19; 2 Corinthians 8:21). For the Holy Scriptures are very clear, the living God is Judge, and He and His Son Jesus will punish all sins and wrongdoing (e.g., see Deuteronomy 32:35; Psalms 94:1-2; Romans 12:19; Hebrews 10:30)!

So instead of anger and revenge, the Holy Scriptures teach that you must pray and love your enemies and do good to those who hurt and harm you (Matthew 5:44; see also Exodus 23:4-5; Deuteronomy 22:1-4; Proverbs 25:21-22; Zechariah 8:17; Matthew 22:39; Luke 6:27-28; Romans 12:14, 20). Goodness always conquers evil (e.g., see Romans 12:21; Galatians 6:10). Furthermore, the Lord Jesus Christ teaches that you are not to judge, criticize, nor condemn your enemies (e.g., see Matthew 7:1; Luke 6:37; Romans 14:13; 1 Peter 3:9). Besides, even when He was unjustly arrested and crucified, the Lord Jesus Christ did not retaliate against His enemies but willingly forgave His enemies and prayed for His accusers (Luke 23:34; see also Isaiah 53:7, 12; Luke 6:29, 35; Acts 7:60; 1 Peter 2:21-23). The Lord Jesus Christ faithful entrusted Himself to His Father – the living Lord God Almighty – who always judges and punishes the unjust and wicked (see 1 Peter 2:23). Therefore, God’s faithful people are to follow the humble example of the Lord Jesus Christ and forgive others (see 1 Peter 2:21).

Besides, your mercy and forgiveness toward others, including your enemies, bring your personal healing, freedom, and happiness as well as God’s blessings and reward (e.g., see Proverbs 11:17; Matthew 25:34-40; Luke 6:27, 35-36; John 8:31-32, 34-36; 1 Peter 3:9-10). Unforgiveness is a sin, and unforgiveness eventually lead to bondage and slavery (see John 8:34). The world’s worst prison is the prison of an unforgiving heart. If you refuse to forgive others, then you are only imprisoning ourselves and causing your torment.

Yet obedience to the teaching of the Lord Jesus Christ brings the Presence and power of God into your life (e.g., see 2 John 1:9). Even more with such mercy and forgiveness, Jesus Christ teaches you will also equally receive forgiveness and mercy from Him and His heavenly Father – the living LORD God Almighty (Matthew 6:14; see also Luke 6:37-38; Matthew 18:35). For the eyes of the LORD God are always on the righteous, and His ears are open to their prayer (1 Peter 3:12; see also Psalm 34:12-15). However, the living God is against those who do evil (1 Peter 3:12; see also Psalm 34:16).

Nevertheless, if you are judgmental and negative of others, you will also receive judgment and criticism – the measure you give is the measure you receive (see Luke 6:37-38). Furthermore, continued bitterness, anger, and unforgiveness lead to your destruction and bondage (e.g., see James 2:13). If you refuse to genuinely forgive others from your heart who have hurt and harmed you, then your heavenly Father will not graciously forgive your sins and hurt against Him and His Son, Jesus Christ (Matthew 6:15; see also Mark 11:25). For there will be no mercy from the living God to those who have shown no mercy towards others (e.g., see Mark 11:25-26; James 2:13). But if you have been merciful and forgiving towards others, then God’s mercy toward you will win out over His judgment against you (e.g., see Matthew 5:7; Matthew 9:13; James 2:13). Therefore, you should be willing to liberally and generously forgive others who hurt and harm you (see Luke 6:37-38).

Finally, the Lord Jesus Christ calls God’s people to seek peace and goodness towards all people, including your enemies, and not evil (Matthew 5:9; see also 1 Peter 3:10-11). The living God blesses peacemakers with His rich goodness, and they are called children of God (Matthew 5:9; see also Matthew 5:44-45; Luke 6:35; James 3:18). Even if God’s people suffer for doing good, the living God will bless and protect you (Matthew 5:10; see also 1 Peter 3:14, 17).