Being Held in Bondage To Offenses will warp clear and integral perceptions of others and important situations.

Presuming someone is doing something to “put you or others in a bad light” can quickly whip up a firestorm of taking sides or finger pointing.

There are some Christians who walk in bondage to continual hurt feelings. They love the LORD, but have somehow resisted submitting their sensitive feelings to the LORD.

Unfortunately, these “touchy” Christians are sensitive about too many things. They spend much of their time, hurt or upset at people or circumstances.

There often seems to be a “chip” on their shoulder which very is quick to misinterpret most things as an offense. They usually blame their offenses upon others, but fail to recognize their own touchiness.

This usually indicates deeper wounds, emotional scars, and insecurities which they must allow the LORD to heal. In some cases there may be harbored sins of unforgiveness toward others which have caused a root of bitterness, which must be surrendered to the LORD.

While often not realized, sensitive feelings are a means that Satan uses to oppress and manipulate people. Too often individuals lose their joy and live in defeat because they are so easily hurt or upset.

It’s not uncommon for such persons to actually stop serving the LORD over petty offenses. This type of tragedy is unnecessary if we can simply accept what really causes offenses and be willing to surrender the problem to the LORD.

For these individuals we must continue to be loving and patient, while encouraging them to grow up. We must go the extra mile to avoid offending such persons, but we must be aware that their sensitivity is brought about by their own inner, personal struggles.

The Real Source of Offenses

People who create offenses are usually easily offended themselves. Why is this?

Because “being offensive” and “being offended” have the same root — self! A “self” problem can usually be easily identified with a person who is rude, bossy, argumentative or inconsiderate.

Their offensive behavior stems from their self-centered attitude, disregarding the feelings of others. However, a “self problem” also exists with the individual who, though they may seem to be more considerate and unselfish, are still easily offended.

Hurt feelings and offenses always have something to do with self; “I didn’t get my way… he was rude to me… after all I did they didn’t even thank me… I don’t get any recognition around here…he didn’t shake my hand… he took advantage of me… and on and on.”

Even feeling sorry for yourself or “pity parties” are rooted in self: “Nobody cares about me…I’m not important.” In reality, offenses are “a violation of self concerns.”

False Expectations

Most hurt feelings occur from the result of disappointments in people. However, we should know better than to put impossible expectations on imperfect human beings!

The Bible speaks very clearly that our expectations should only be placed in the LORD.

“My soul, wait silently for God alone, for my expectation is from Him,” Psalms 62:5.

Let’s face it! People are going to frequently fail and let us down because all mankind is under the influence of a fallen and sinful nature (Romans 3:23). Although Christians are forgiven and have God’s presence in their lives, they still make mistakes and will sometimes fail.

Mature believers should know not to put an absolute expectation of perfection on other Christians, even in pastors or ministers, realizing that these leaders are still just human beings, capable of making errors or committing sin.

Apply Love and Forgiveness

False expectations in people can result in disappointment and hurt feelings, but the Bible says that “love and forgiveness” will keep us from stumbling.

“He who loves his brother abides in the light, and there is no cause for stumbling in him,” 1 John 2:10.

The LORD has not called us to put our expectations in people. He has called us to love and forgive them!

“And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God in Christ also forgave you,” Ephesians 4:32.

Love is the ultimate cure for offenses. It will wipe out self-centeredness that thrives on its own interests and rights (1 Corinthians 13:5), and will forgive those who disappoint us.

“…for love will cover a multitude of sins” 1 Peter 4:8.

Prayer to Renounce Being Offended

In Jesus name, Almighty God, give me strength of spirit with a gracious mouth, a gracious heart, being merciful, forgiving, long-suffering, the peacemaker, for the Bible says blessed are the peacemakers.

I give up my need to hold people’s feet over the fire of punishment when I am offended.

Please cleanse me LORD. Search me Oh God! Test my heart and expose any wicked way in me!

Lead me to a path of mercy and grace so that I reflect your forgiveness, your forgiving nature, just like you have forgiven me so many times in my life.

In Jesus’ name,
Thank you LORD,
Amen.

 

In His Shadow,
~ Mary Lindow ^©

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” THE MESSENGER ” ~ Mary Lindow
www.marylindow.com
Global Prayer Rooms

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Mary Lindow has a passion for encouraging others – all generations, careers or vocations to live expressing excellence through personal integrity, healthy accountability, and wise management of talents and skills. She’s a sought after keynote, inspirational, humorous speaker and teacher across the USA and internationally in Ministers & Spiritual leaders Conferences, and training seminars for various organizations.

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