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.
— Luke 23:33-34 NLT

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

The Gamble
Devo: What Jesus Did!
"Two others, both criminals, were led out to be executed with [Jesus]. When they came to a place called The Skull, they nailed him to the cross. And..."
Spurgeon AM Devo for Apr. 10th
Devo: Morning & Evening
"The hill of comfort is the hill of Calvary; the house of consolation is built with the wood of the cross; the temple of heavenly blessing is founded....."
What would Jesus' message be to you?
Illustration of Luke 23:34
Inspirational illustration of Luke 23:34 -- Father forgive them for they don't know what they are doing.
What Christmas Teaches
Article by Rubel Shelly
Can you escape the traps? Rubel Shelly reminds us that Christmas can be a time where we escape the realities of the world and rejoice.
See All 16 Related Resources about Luke 23:33-34

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

God's Holy Fire
A daily devotional about the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives.
'Who Can Argue with These Qualities?'
"For the Kingdom of God is not a matter of what we eat or drink, but of living a life of goodness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. If you serve Christ with...."
Praying with Paul
Features the apostle Paul's writings turned into daily, powerful prayers.
'Remembering Christ's Death' (1 Co. 11:24-26)
"Dear Father, giver of bread and wine, Cause us to remember that in the same way he blessed the bread, after supper he took the cup, saying, "This cup..."
Quotemeal
A daily dose of Christian quotes to inspire and encourage.
Quote by Francis Frangipane:
"I tell you, if you are serious about wanting to be like Christ, He is going to put you in circumstances where your only true choice is to become like Him."
Unstoppable!
A one-year devotional guide through the book of Acts.
'Genuine Sorrow' (Acts 8:1-4)
"Saul was one of the witnesses [to Stephen's being stoned to death], and he agreed completely with the killing of Stephen. A great wave of..."

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.

More Spiritual Warfare