The LORD forgives our sins,
heals us when we are sick, and protects us from death (Psalm 103:3-4, CEV).

River of Healing — Photo courtesy of Donald Adam

Reflection

This week’s I Love the Psalms theme is forgiveness.

Jesus taught us to pray, “Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us.” Our forgiving Lord expects us to be forgiving toward others—to pass on the forgiveness we have freely received from Him.

There is something deeply therapeutic about forgiveness. We can see that in today’s verse from the Psalms:

The LORD forgives our sins, heals us when we are sick, and protects us from death (Psalm 103:3-4, CEV).

Forgiveness and healing are linked. James, the brother of our Lord, writes, “If you have sinned, you should tell each other what you have done. Then you can pray for one another and be healed. The prayer of an innocent person is powerful, and it can help a lot” (James 5:16, CEV).

Forgiveness is the Lord’s prescription for ailments of body, soul and spirit.

Response: LORD God, I need your forgiveness, healing and protection. Help me start on the road to healing by forgiving those who have wounded my spirit. I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Your Turn: Have you received forgiveness and healing through Christ?