Forgive

“Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.”
– Luke 6:37


In a few powerful words, Jesus offers both a warning and a promise. He reminds us that judgment and condemnation do not belong in the hands of His followers—and that forgiveness is the way of the kingdom. These instructions are not only about how we treat others; they’re also about the kind of people we become when Christ’s love shapes us.

It’s easy to slip into judgment, especially when we feel strongly about truth or justice. But Jesus warns us that a spirit of condemnation closes the door to grace—both for others and for ourselves. Condemnation creates distance. Forgiveness creates a bridge.

Jesus’ words invite us to step into the flow of grace: giving what we have received. He does not tell us to pretend that wrongs are right, but to live in mercy because we have been shown mercy. This is especially important within the church, where differing convictions can tempt us to judge those we don’t understand. But our call is not to condemn—it is to forgive, to love, and to extend the compassion of Christ.


Questions

1. What situations or beliefs lead you to feel judgmental toward other believers?

2. How does remembering God’s forgiveness help you extend grace to others?

3. Is there someone you’ve condemned in your heart whom you now need to forgive?


Suggested Activity

Take a moment today to reflect on how much you’ve been forgiven. Write down a few ways God has shown you mercy, then choose one person you’ve struggled to forgive or understand. Pray for them, and ask God to give you a heart of compassion instead of judgment.


Prayer

Merciful God, 

You have not judged me as I deserve, and You have not condemned me, though You could. Instead, You have forgiven me again and again. Help me to live in that mercy—not only for myself but toward others. Replace my judgments with understanding, my pride with humility, and my resentment with forgiveness. Let me live as a child of grace.

In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

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