Live Your Blessing February 18, 2026 Devotional

MATTHEW 18:22 | ²² Jesus said to him, Not seven times, but, I tell you, seventy-seven times.

One of the best ways to bless someone despite their behavior or attitude is to forgive them. Forgiveness is an extra mile, step beyond matter. There are real and concrete obstacles to exercising forgiveness. There is the fear it will become license and encourage others in their wayward behavior. There is the actual wound we have when we have been hurt or let down. There is the sheer        unfairness of the way we have been treated. Most tellingly, there is the satisfying emotion of self-righteous indignation.

Yet the alternative to forgiving is grudge bearing, opposition, punishing, withdrawing, and nursing our injuries. Forgiveness is risky but the only way to free ourselves from the webs of hurt and offense that engulf us and others.

Which obstacle to forgiveness resonates with you?

Gracious God,

Help me find freedom in forgiving those who have let me down, hurt my feelings, or treated me unfairly. I ask in Jesus’ name.

Amen.