Offended

I realized something just now reading over another thread I found myself getting very offended. I was all set to type out a reply and felt justified in doing so. I was actually about half way finished when I felt the Lord quicken to my heart, "Why?" the simple word got me thinking, and I realize "why am I offended at this comment in this thread?" So what if someone writes something that if I allow it to hurts my feelings what does it really matter when all is said and done. Many hurtful things were said to and about Jesus. He endured many insults and much more so why am I allowing the words(which were probably written innocently and not meant to offend anyway)to upset me? As I sit here with my hand hovering over the delete or post button I realized I have a choice, right here right now! In HIM the answer was so clear... I need to look to Jesus and keep my focus on HIM, not men, not their words, but Jesus only! Today in HIM I can choose not to become offended :) I can by HIS strength delete all my unimportant words, smile, gives thanks, pray for strength...and choose not be offended. Thanks you JESUS!!

Its about to rain here(at least I think so) its still a beautiful day in our Lord and I just pray all who read this have a wonderful weekend!!

God Bless you all
Mary Jane

Dear MaryJane,

This is the best post you have ever made. I agree with you 100%.

white stone

MaryJane wrote:

"I realized something just now reading over another thread I found myself getting very offended. I was all set to type out a reply and felt justified in doing so. I was actually about half way finished when I felt the Lord quicken to my
heart, "Why?" the simple word got me thinking, and I realize
"why am I offended at this comment in this thread?" So what if someone writes something that if I allow it to hurts my feelings what does it really matter when all is said and done. Many hurtful things were said to and about Jesus. He endured many insults and much more so why am I allowing the words(which were probably written innocently and not meant to offend anyway)to upset me? As I sit here with my hand hovering over the delete or post button I realized I have a choice, right here right now! In HIM the answer was so clear... I need to look to Jesus and keep my focus on HIM, not men, not their words, but Jesus only! Today in HIM I can choose not to become offended :) I can by HIS strength delete all my unimportant words, smile, gives thanks, pray for strength...and choose not be offended. Thanks you JESUS!!"

I agree 100%.

It has been in posting on this forum that has taught me lot about this very point:
1. All have opinions
2. One needs to allow the scriptures to shape our opinions.
3. An opinion is an opinion still.
4. The Scriptures are absolute.
5. One must allow the scriptures to shape and mold us into the image God intends for us.
6. The shaping and molding that happens in our lives is a constant on-going process.
7. In this process we at times get opinions confused with Biblical teachings. And one must learn to discern the difference between the two.
8. As we recognize this process, knowing others are at different stages in this process, we must learn to cut others slack, remember full well our own foolishness in times past.
9. Growing can be a painful process at times
10. Know full well we are called to faithfulness and it is our duty to help others along in this process. No one will ever do everything just right every time, including me.
11. In it all one must learn to discern the leading of the leading of the Spirit as one shares and ministers the WORD to whoever, wherever.

BTW, I can relate to Krispy's testimony! God bless you, Krispy! It has been a blessing to observe this change...AND ya'll know what? This takes time! This is the benefit of hanging in here even after you get mad....

Love your post, MJ.

ginnyrose

That shows growing maturity in the faith. Evidence that God is completing the work He began in you!

Offense is a form of anger which is rooted in pride. Not an easy foe to defeat! The Psalms constantly remind us: The LORD is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in mercy. And, we are to look to HIm as our example.

Thank you for demonstrating that example and being one yourself, sister. I hope to follow it.

Amen. It is indeed a sign of maturity. I'm sure you've noticed before how childish it is when someone you're dealing with is always offended. :)

"Charity...is not easily provoked."

Awesome, and thank you for the encouragement and the helpful reminder. Let my words be few. :)