“If possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone” (Romans 12:18, CSB)
Have you been offended?
Chances are, you have been. And, if you’re like most people, bad outcomes make you question how things could have turned out differently—since our reaction impacts the outcome.
We have two choices when we are offended…
Either we choose to react in our flesh, allowing a root of bitterness to grow, or we respond with creating space for God to do a more significant work of healing. In this, we gain freedom in peace towards one another.
Consider the following passages and let God speak into your offended heart.
“Good sense makes one slow to anger, and it is his glory to overlook an offense” (Proverbs 19:11, ESV). Keeping a cool head is better than letting an offense derail you from a fruitful walk with God.
“But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” (Matthew 5:44, NASB). How do we love our enemies? Through God’s heart. Why should we love our enemies? Because God first loved us when we were His enemy (1 John 4:19, Romans 5:10).
“Bearing with one another, and forgiving each other, whoever has a complaint against anyone; just as the Lord forgave you, so also should you” (Colossians 3:13, NASB). Even though your complaint may be justifiable, take it before the Lord, allowing Him to minister to your soul, so that you may be one with Christ during your affliction (Psalm 139:23–24).
Lord, help me to love others as You do. I choose peace and forgiveness towards my offender, knowing this does not absolve them from their offense, but reconciles me to You. In Jesus name, Amen.
Embrace His Truth: Ephesians 4:31–32; Luke 17:3–4; Deuteronomy 3:22; Romans 12:18, Proverbs 19:11; Matthew 5:44; 1 John 4:19; Romans 5:10; Colossians 3:13; Psalm 139:23–24
