Mustard Seed Daily Devotions
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Forgiven and Free

In the Word

Blessed is he whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered (Psalm 32:1).

Of the Word

The prison chaplain visited the death row inmate whose life would soon end because of his crimes. As they talked, the inmate confessed to beatings, bombings, and murders. The chaplain quietly but firmly assured him that God was willing to forgive every crime. Incredulously the inmate cried, “All of them? How? Why?”

The chaplain told the story of God’s love for all men, the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross, His death and resurrection. “God assures you through His Word that His grace is for you, so you can believe in Jesus and confess your crimes to Him, knowing you are forgiven. In Jesus Christ, you are a free man.”

No matter what the sin, God is big enough to forgive it. Something perceived as a “small” sin (telling a white lie, wasting company time with long lunch hours) or something thought to be a “big” sin (embezzlement, abortion, addiction) all disappear in God’s sight through His grace and mercy. The Lord redeems his servants; no one will be condemned who takes refuge in him (Psalm 34:22).

Walking with my Lord

Lord, I have sinned against You and against others. Forgive me and help me to live according to Your holy will. In Jesus’ name. Amen.


Mustard Seed: Comfort from the Psalms. Authors: Marcia Gomulka & Myrna Lou Meyer. 4/30 ©2009 Lutheran Women’s Missionary League, 801 Seminary Place Ste. L010, St. Louis, MO 63105. www.lwml.org

Unless otherwise indicated, Scripture quotations were taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. All rights reserved worldwide.

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