Matthew 18:21 Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times?
When Christ explained the issue of habitual, repeat forgiveness, He made reference to persons who had concluded that they could expect forgiveness from such and such a person, hence the reason why they kept coming back for more. It’s a troubling thought to know that a repeat offender can expect mercy.
But the very thought of a repeat offender expecting forgiveness will cause some person’s blood to boil, for the first thing that will usually arise in our minds is that we are being deliberately taken advantage of us, and as such, we will quite often usually preempt forgiveness by deciding up front not to pardon such a person.
At such times, the decision not to forgive could be palpable, since out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks, and like Cain, our countenances may fall, and reveal the hard-heartedness within. To forgive a repeat trespasser, who is expecting to be forgiven multiple times is a very tall order, and it can try our faith and patience to the core at times.
Matthew 18:22 Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven.
May The Lord add His blessing to the study of His word. God bless!