Do you know how you have a conversation about something, and that “something” then shows up on your social media feed or internet browser, or do you get a random email? Crazy, right? I was in a conversation about fishing. And then I got this ad on my feed: “Fish Like a Pro: Choose the Perfect Bait.” The phrase “perfect bait” got my attention. Listed were several types of fishing bait. Examples: Live Bait, Grocery-bought Bait, Artificial Bait, and Dipped, Dough, and Tube baits. And the tagline for all the baits was, “Choose Your Baits Wisely Based on the Kind of Fish You Want to Catch.”
Yes, you just spent the last minute reading about fishing baits on a blog meant to equip, empower, and encourage women. I do have a point here. The point is Satan has many baits he uses to distract and destroy us. But one of the “perfect baits” he uses is to keep us offended and hide our offense, cloaked with pride. Offense is a tool of the enemy to bring people into captivity. (2 Timothy 2:24-26)
Jesus said it is impossible to live in this world and not have the opportunity to become offended. Yet most believers are shocked, bewildered, and amazed when it happens. This response leaves us vulnerable to a root of bitterness. Therefore, we must be prepared and armed for offenses because our response determines our future.
Many people cannot function properly in God’s purpose and calling for their lives because of their wounds, hurts, and offenses. Mistreatment happens, but that does not mean we are to hold on to an offense.
And then many will be offended, will betray one another, and will hate one another. Matthew 24:10
You can see how being offended and staying offended is the Perfect Bait for our enemy to use. So, what do you do if you just can’t let go of the offense:
- Seeing the true condition of your heart will help free you from deception.
- Stop blaming others.
- Trust God and not flesh.
- Resist the temptation to be offended, and let God bring victory.
When Jesus was wronged, He did not wrong in return but committed His soul to God, who would judge righteously. We are to follow in His steps.
Hebrews 3:13 states that hearts are hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. If we do not deal with an offense, it will produce more ripples of sin, such as bitterness, anger, and resentment.
Now is the time to release the chains of deception because of offense. Take time and ask the Lord to reveal the condition of your heart. Choose to repent what’s needed, and let God be the Lord of your life.
