People often hurt us with their words and actions out of misunderstanding rather than malice. We get upset because we read too much into what they say and think about us. However, it is good to exercise patience and discernment and not let everyone else's opinion of us take precedence over God's opinion of us.

How did Jesus manage personal offence?

Consider these words of the Apostle Peter:

When [Jesus] was verbally abused, he did not return with an insult; when he suffered, he would not threaten retaliation. Jesus faithfully entrusted himself into the hands of God, who judges righteously.

1 Peter 2:23 (TPT)

 

Jesus never defended Himself, no matter how many times His adversaries condemned Him. Instead, He remained silent, relying solely on God for protection and security. His ability to do so stems from a strong sense of identity and purpose. In the same way, as we hold fast to the truth of who we are in Christ, we have the resilience and courage to deal with offence effectively.

The aim is not to never be offended, but to promptly resolve an offence. You must understand that offence is the bait used by the Enemy to entice us into his traps. He merely wants to divide us and destroy our relationships.

If someone has upset you, do not retaliate. Instead, learn to walk in love. Give up the need to fight back, as Jesus did, and forgive the person who may have wronged you or turned others against you. If you have done nothing wrong, God will give you justice and peace. Instead of staying offended and holding grudges, pray for God to lead you into repentance and reconciliation.