Choose to Not Be Offended

By: Jenifer Metzger

A person's wisdom makes him slow to anger;

it is his honor to overlook an offense.

Proverbs 19:11

Did you read that verse in Proverbs? Look at the last three words again. Overlook an offense. The Bible not only tells us to overlook an offense, it says it is our honor to do so.

Have you ever thought about the things you get offended by? Someone says something or does something and we are hurt, angry, and offended. Sometimes it's big, someone gossips about you. Sometimes it's small, someone doesn't say thank you when you do something for them.

When we are offended, we often react in a way that does not bring honor to God. We snap back. We get even. We want them to feel like they made us feel. Sometimes, we wallow in the hurt, even feel depressed. None of these sound Christ-like.

As a Christian, we are called to be Christ-like. We should show the love of Jesus through our words and actions, even through our reactions. 

While there are some things that need to be addressed, somethings that are truly hurtful and bring deep grief. But before we let offense take root in our heart, we need to stop and think. Does this really matter? In light of eternity, how important is it. Is it something I need to pray about, seek counsel about, address? Or is it something I can overlook.

With all humility and gentleness,

with patience, bearing with one

another in love, be eager to maintain

the Spirit of unity in the bond of peace.

Ephesians 4:2-3

If we want to reflect Jesus, we can't live offended. If we want to point people to Him, we can't live offended. We have to show humility, gentleness, patience, and love.

Discussion:
1. Do you struggle with feelings of offense?
2. How do/can you overlook offense?