“He could have at least have said ‘thank you.'” “He should have helped me out.” “She should have called me back”. What positive things are you anticipating that people will pay back to you? We often feel that people, or perhaps even God, “owe us” things. We could anticipate that we are “owed” an apology, a compliment, an explanation for what happened, a thank you, perhaps money or something else.
God challenges us that we are to be the type of people who release people from their debts. In Deut. 15:1 God says, ““At the end of every seven years you shall grant a release of debts.” I understand that this specifically is talking about financial obligations, but there is a principle that is shown here and elsewhere in the scriptures, the principle of releasing people of our expectations. This is shown in “The Lord’s Prayer” where we ask God to “forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.” (Matthew 6:12). The release of these debts of expectation is essential for our own personal well being and for the continuance of healthy relationships.
Holding on to these expectations subtly says that these things are needed to bring life and peace and success, when what we really need is more of our Lord Jesus and His comfort, strength and encouragement.
Lord Jesus, thank You for forgiving the greatest debt that we have. Help us to quickly be able to release others of what we feel we are owed. Help us to find our fulfillment and life in You.
Excellent message Keith. Amen to that. Blessings