Note.—This scripture is especially encouraging. God hates sin. He wants us likewise to hate it and shun it, because it invariably gets us into trouble, causes sorrow of heart, and in the end brings death. But when involved in it, as was David, as soon as it is acknowledged and sincerely confessed, that very moment it is forgiven. David said, “I have sinned.” The immediate answer was returned, “The Lord also hath put away thy sin.”
8. Is it ever right to tell a brother of his faults?
“If thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother.” Matt. 18:15. “Thou shalt not hate thy brother in thine heart: thou shalt in any wise rebuke thy neighbor, and not suffer sin upon him.” Lev. 19:17.
9. In what spirit should this kind of work be done?
“Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.” Gal. 6:1.
Note.—It is much easier to tell some one else of a brother's faults than it is to tell him of them himself; but this is not the Christian way to proceed. The first efforts should be made with the offender in person, and alone. But it is easier even to tell a brother of his faults than it is to confess to him our own. This, again, let it be noted, is the one very difficult lesson to learn, the one Christian duty difficult to perform. Only humility and the grace of God will enable one to do it.
10. When we pray, what does Christ tell us to do, and why?
“And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have aught against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.” Mark 11:25.
11. If we do not forgive others, what will God not do?
“But if ye do not forgive, neither will your Father which is in heaven forgive your trespasses.” Verse 26. See, for illustration, Christ's parable recorded in Matt. 18:23-35.