Looking in the Mirror
Sometimes, our greatest judgments are against ourselves. When we experience God's forgiveness, He not only forgives us, He cleanses us. We are clean (1Jn 1:9). Seeing ourself in this light allows us to enter into what Jesus characterized as the second greatest commandment in Mat 22:36-39. If we are to love others as well as we love ourself, then it is clear that we should see ourself as God sees us.
In Mark 11:25, we are told that if we have anything against someone, we must forgive. Doesn't "someone" include ourselves? Choose to see yourself as God sees you—forgiven! You can choose a prayer of forgiveness right now.
Father, because you have forgiven me, I choose to forgive myself and to release myself from all accusations, judgments, self-hatred and slander, stupidity, and mistakes. I choose to accept myself just as I am because You accept me. I choose to love myself because You love me. I even expect to begin to like myself.
Holy Spirit, I ask You, I give You permission, I expect You to work Your work of sanctification in me. I fully embrace this truth and look forward to working with You so I can be changed into the image of Christ. In the Name of Jesus Christ I pray. Amen!
Mark 11:25 (The Message)
"And when you assume the posture of prayer, remember that it's not all asking. If you have anything against someone, forgive—only then will your heavenly Father be inclined to also wipe your slate clean of sins."
Mat 22:36-39 (The Message)
"Teacher, which command in God's Law is the most important?" (37) Jesus said, "'Love the Lord your God with all your passion and prayer and intelligence.' (38) This is the most important, the first on any list. (39) But there is a second to set alongside it: 'Love others as well as you love yourself.'
1Jn 1:9 (The Message)
On the other hand, if we admit our sins—make a clean breast of them—he won't let us down; he'll be true to himself. He'll forgive our sins and purge us of all wrongdoing.
