I am reading a book titled “Bait of Satan: Living Free from the Deadly Trap of Offense” by John Bevere. I am only on chapter 2, but it is an interesting read.
To understand what Offended means, we really should start with a definition, but there are so many. However, I feel this is probably the best one to describe what this blog is about:
- to cause (a person or group) to feel hurt, angry, or upset by something said or done
The premise if that we get to choose how will react when we are offended, but we have to realize that Satan is using this powerful tool to sever our relationship with God. We think that we should never be offended, but that is not what the Bible says:
Luke 17:1 King James Version (KJV)
17 Then said he unto the disciples, It is impossible but that offenses will come: but woe unto him, through whom they come!
Many of us are bitter or angry and really do not know why, we just know we are. This book will help you to understand why you are and how to overcome those feelings/emotions. One of the biggest things we can do is to forgive others.
As mentioned before, forgiveness does not mean forgetting, but it does mean that you are no longer going to hold a debt over the person. Instead, you are going to rely upon God to handle it all. It also does not mean you will become best friends although that is a possibility.
Think about Jesus. Did He have a right to be offended? I would say yes and I am sure many others would also say yes. Despite Him possibly having the right, was He offended? The answer is NO. In fact Jesus while dying on the cross said:
Luke 23:34 New International Version (NIV)
34 Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” And they divided up his clothes by casting lots.
Jesus also said that we should do the following:
Matthew 5:43-48 New International Version (NIV)
Love for Enemies
43 “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ 44 But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45 that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. 46 If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? 47 And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? 48 Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.
While an offense may come from time to time, we have been instructed on how to behave. The question is will you be obedient to God’s will? I know I have not, but with a lot and I mean a lot of prayer that will change. So pray for me to change, pray for yourself to change, and pray for others to change with regards to being offended.