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  MAY 7. A FORGIVING SPIRIT
  by J.R. Miller
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"Forgive us our sins — as we have forgiven those who sin against us."
Matthew 6:12

The first part of this petition, "forgive us our sins" is not so hard to
say. Most people are willing to confess, at least in a general way —
that they have sinned.

But the second part is harder to repeat: "as we have forgiven those who
sin against us." When someone has done us an injury, and we are feeling
bitter over it — then it is not so easy to ask God to forgive us —
as we forgive. Perhaps we do not forgive at all — but keep the bitter
feeling in our heart against our brother.

What is it, then, that we ask God to do for us when we pray, "Forgive us
— as we forgive"? God has linked blessing and duty together in this
petition. If we will not forgive those who have wronged us — it is
evident that we have not the spirit of penitence to which God grants
forgiveness of sins. If we would enjoy the sweet peace of God in our own
hearts — we must keep our minds free from all bitterness and anger and
all feelings of unforgiveness.

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Source: https://sermonindex.net/speakers/jr-miller/may-7-a-forgiving-spirit/
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