But perceiving their thoughts, Jesus said, “Why are you thinking evil things in your hearts?"
Matthew 9:4 (HCSB)
This passage presents us with the situation of a paralytic lying on his bed, who could do nothing at all. Seeing his situation and probably knowing what had caused his paralysis, Jesus first focused on his sin in order to grant him God’s forgiveness. He could have simply healed the man and let him go, but the context of the passage helps us understand that if the man had been healed without being forgiven, he would likely have fallen back into the same situation.
The scribes, instead of acknowledging Jesus’ divinity and showing joy over the man’s healing, chose to rebel against Jesus and reject His act of forgiveness and healing. Knowing their thoughts, Jesus confronted their evil desire and explained to them the importance of forgiveness. This did not change their intention. Sometimes people harbor negative thoughts toward another person who has wronged them. They forget that God knows their hearts and their evil intentions to do harm.
The Bible tells us to turn the other cheek when someone slaps us on the cheek. This means that we should neither think negative thoughts nor plan to hurt the one who has wronged us. On the contrary, we should love him in spite of everything and forgive him. This is what Jesus asks us to do. He knows that it will not always be easy, but such an attitude of wisdom can lead the other to repentance and to ask forgiveness for the wrong he has done to you. Be a model for others as Christ was for you.
May the grace and peace of God be with you all.
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