Release the Offenseಮಾದರಿ

The Power of the Offended

As we have learned, offenses are inevitable. But today, let us shift our focus from the offense to the power held by the offended.

Sometimes, when faced with the challenge of forgiving someone who has wronged us, we might feel powerless. We question the necessity and the means: "How do I do it? Why should I do it?" It may seem as if forgiveness equates to allowing others to trample over us. Some of us were given a false concept of humility early in life. We were told “humble is the way” which is true. However, we had a faulty interpretation: “If you want to be like Jesus, let people walk all over you.” Friend, that is erroneous and inconsistent with God’s Word. Misguided piety claims that ”being like Jesus” means enduring all maltreatment silently, never defending oneself. That notion, while well-intentioned, is a severe example of bad religion. Bad religion denigrates self-respect and empowerment. Scripture actually offers a different view. While God repudiates offenses, He never opposes defense. He provides mechanisms for affirming and securing our worth as individuals created in His image.

Jesus empowers the offended. He tells us to “rebuke” someone if he or she violates our personhood. In other words, if a God-honoring boundary has been crossed, Jesus gives us permission to CONFRONT. We can confront a situation without being confrontational, that is, irritable, mean, or vengeful.

You do not have to wait for the offender to repent or for justice to be served to begin healing. Whether you have addressed the individual yet or not, you can release the offense now, and in doing so, you take control of your emotional and spiritual well-being. This is the essence of God-consciousness—knowing that God sees you, cares for you, and stands as your defender.

When we remain aware of God’s presence, we are reminded that He has already promised to deal with those who wrong us. As Luke 17:2 points out, there are severe consequences for those who cause others to stumble. You, the offended, must trust God to handle the offender while you focus on guarding your own hearts. In this, there is great freedom.

Jesus did not intend for us to live powerless lives. When you release the offense, and confront the situation, you are in fact taking the power BACK.

Releasing the offense is not easy, but it is a command and a pathway to freedom. We can truly experience the peace and victory that Christ has promised us when we learn how to release the offense…

LET US PRAY
Father, I trust You with my hurt. I know that you see the wrong done to me and that you care deeply about my heart. Help me to identify and walk in the power You have given me to forgive and release the offense, just as You have forgiven me. Keep my heart from bitterness and give me the grace to respond with love. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.