Dealing With Offenses

Hi Friends! Have you noticed how easily people get offended in today's world? It seems like everyone is walking on eggshells, afraid of hurting someone else’s feelings. Yet, no matter what we say or do, there's always the probability of someone taking offense. It seems like the world has been flipped upside-down, which is exactly what we read in the prophetic warnings found in the Bible about these end times.

 I’ve noticed a troubling trend in our society over the last few years: a growing acceptance of behaviors and language that directly contradict God's Word. But when Christians express their concerns about this behavior, their objections are frequently dismissed. Yet, when a Christian dares to voice their convictions about someone else's actions, it can lead to an uproar, with people questioning their right to make judgments. I'm certain many of you have encountered situations like this. Friends, it's undeniable that we are living in a world marked by chaos in these times.

 You know, there are two words that really trouble me. First, any form of blasphemy against my God is something that I find highly offensive. Secondly, there is a vulgar term that has unfortunately become all too common in everyday language for many people. Even before I became a Christian, I really hated that word, and my feelings remain the same today. However, whenever I express my offense at such language, I often face criticism and pushback. Here’s an example:

I came across a video that Facebook recommended, where a woman was offering advice to women about dressing modestly. She was urging them to take pride in their appearance and to make a positive impression. Initially, I agreed with her message. She came across as a caring and respectable person. However, out of nowhere, she used that word that I find very vulgar. I tried to ignore it, but it bothered me a lot. Here was someone influencing young women, telling them to present themselves well, and then she used inappropriate language. What kind of influence was that?

 So, I commented on it, emphasizing the importance of both how we dress and the language we use. But someone took offense to my comment, believing I had no right to criticize her language. This incident highlighted how what's deeply offensive to me is ordinary to someone else.

 Do you ever encounter situations like this? Feel free to share in the comments some things that offend you. I'd love to hear from you.

 Now, let's talk about what Jesus had to say about offenses. In Matthew 18:7, He warns, “Woe to the world because of offenses! For offenses must come, but woe to that man by whom the offense comes!” And in Matthew 14, we see that John the Baptist was beheaded because he confronted Herod's sinful actions.

 In the world, offenses are going to happen. What's offensive to us as Christians might be normal to unbelievers. This is precisely why God calls us to be salt and light in the world. As we approach the end times, offensive behavior will become increasingly prevalent for those who honor God and His Word.

 But Friends, we must stand for truth, integrity, and morality. If we don't uphold the truth of God's Word and moral values, there won't be any salt and light to guide people to Jesus. We are called to be different, to live in holiness and righteousness, and to proclaim God's truth, even in the face of arrogance and hostility.

 What did Jesus say about John the Baptist? In Luke 7:28, He declared, “For I say to you, among those born of women there is not a greater prophet than John the Baptist.” John was considered the greatest prophet before Jesus granted us salvation.

 So, my message, dear Friends, is this: Don't be surprised when offenses come your way. I know I offended people before I found the Lord. I used inappropriate language, dressed poorly, had a bad attitude, and wasn't a very good person. But as Christians, we must stand up for truth and integrity. We must walk in holiness and righteousness, being salt and light in the world. We need to show those around us that Jesus is alive, that He loves them, and that He gave His life for their freedom. So, when offenses come, stand up for the truth and the Kingdom of Heaven.

 May I pray with you? 

 Father, in the Name of Jesus, I want to tell you Lord that I love you and I praise you for Who You are in my life. Father, I know that you have left us here on the earth to be salt and light in a lost and dying world. I ask you to give me boldness Lord. Help me to lovingly call out sin, and to shine the light of the Gospel wherever I go. We must tell people that Jesus gave Himself so they don’t have to live a sinful lifestyle anymore. They can know the Truth of the Gospel and they can be set free. Help me Father to be loving, to be kind and considerate, but help me also to be the salt that would hold back decay and to speak up for truth, to preserve goodness in the world. Teach me to become more and more like Jesus every day. I love you Lord and I give you praise and glory. In Jesus Name… Amen.

 Friends, remember that offenses will come, but we don't have to be bound by them. Jesus wants us to be free. He said, “You shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.'” 

Be blessed today Friends....