“Choose Not To Be Offended”

Proverbs 19:11

Offended is defined as to irritate, annoy, or anger; cause resentful displeasure in; vexed; hurt; provoked.

Have you found yourself asking these questions when some people talk to you; What did they mean by that? Why do they always hurt my feelings? Why do they treat me this way? We often hear people's words, jump to a conclusion and choose to be offended. But through God’s word, we can choose to look past their words and not receive them with an offended heart. We have a choice to not be offended by what they say. We need to listen and ask ourself what is driving this behavior? Do they have a valid point? Do they bar a deep hurt? Are they just generally mean and negative? It’s our responsibility to stop the words from entering our heart and taking root. In this process we are looking for the approval of people. But in God's word it clearly says that He is the only One whose approval we need. In Ephesians 4:26-27 it says; “Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger and give no opportunity to the devil. Paul was saying, clearly, that, yes, we will get angry; that happens; we’re human. But then we have to get rid of it. So deal with it. Now. We have no right to it.

I come by this morning to let you know when someone speaks a hurtful word, we must check it at the door of our heart. We hear the words, we recognize our issue and we speak truth over our heart. We must say, "It is to our glory to not receive this as an offense.” Recognize your identity in Christ and move forward in peace. Be bless and I love you!!! JE