The Spirit has been speaking to me on offense lately and has directed me to share some of what I have discovered with you.
Love prospers when a fault is forgiven, but dwelling on it separates close friends. Proverbs 17:9
An offended friend is harder to win back than a fortified city. Arguments separate friends like a gate locked with bars. Proverbs 18:19
Overcoming Offense
Offense, especially within the body of Christ, is a sin. It is so easy to allow yourself to become offended by what others say and think about you. Too often we all say things that we don't mean or something we say is misunderstood. As a result of a lack of communication, we allow our feelings to take over and we begin to think about it over and over taking our focus off God. This only leads to unforgiveness and and a cycle of negative thoughts. Offense is Satan's number one tool to lure you into his trap. Being offended is a trap the enemy uses to prevent us from being who we are in Christ, and thus failing. Anger, hurt, bitterness and unforgiveness all begin to hold you in bondage to the stronghold of offense. The good news is that you can escape the trap! God gives us weapons to win this battle. The sword of the Spirit-the Word of God, is our weapon against offense (Ephesians 6:10-18). Believe in the effectiveness of God's Word. Study it and apply it to your life daily. Choose today not to stay in bondage to this sin. Offense will stop you from enjoying your life and from receiving God's blessings. Jesus came so that we may enjoy life (John 10:10). The enemy uses offense to steal our peace, not the other persons peace! Refuse to be offended today and give all the glory to God!
No comments:
Post a Comment