Spiritual Warfare: 'Forgive Others — Even if They Haven't Asked'

God's Power for Our Battles — Tuesday, April 7, 2026

When they came to a place called The Skull, they nailed him to the cross. And the criminals were also crucified—one on his right and one on his left. Jesus said, "Father, forgive them, for they don't know what they are doing." And the soldiers gambled for his clothes by throwing dice.

Today's Prayer

Lord, thank You for going to the cross in my place. Thank You for bearing the pain and suffering I deserve. And thank You for setting the example for forgiveness even before anyone ever asked You for it. Forgiveness is what we all need, Lord, and we often withhold it because we want others to ask for it first. Remind us, Lord, that You offered forgiveness even before we asked for it; that You prayed to the Father for our forgiveness while You were still dying on the cross in my place. And help me to follow Your selfless example. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Have thoughts on this devotional? Leave a comment

16 Related Resources by Heartlight

Illustration

Illustration of Luke 23:33-34 NLT — When they came to a place called The Skull, they nailed him to the cross. And the criminals were also crucified—one on his right and one on his left.  Jesus said, "Father, forgive them, for they don't know what they are doing." And the soldiers gambled for his clothes by throwing dice.

Other Devotionals from Heartlight for Tuesday, April 7, 2026

A devotional to help reclaim Jesus as the daily Lord of our lives.
"Dear Beloved, Let me ask you several questions to get you started thinking about today's verses from Paul's letter to the Romans:What makes you..."
A daily devotional featuring a Bible verse, thought and prayer.
"Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who..."
The classic twice-daily devotional from Charles H. Spurgeon.
"This "liberty" makes us free to heaven's charter-the Bible. Here is a choice passage, believer, "When thou passest through the rivers, I will be with...."
A one-year devotional guide through the book of Acts.
"About that time, serious trouble developed in Ephesus concerning the Way. It began with Demetrius, a silversmith who had a large business..."

About This Devotional

Spiritual Warfare is a daily devotional about God's power for our battles.

The Prayer for Spiritual Warfare is written by Steve Hemphill.