You know how you have a conversation about something and that “something” then shows up on your social media feed or internet browser, or 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 or so reading about fishing baits on a blog meant to equip, empower, and encourage women. I do have a point here. The point is that Satan has many baits he uses to distract and destroy us. But one of his “perfect baits” he uses is to keep us offended and have our offense be hidden, cloaked with pride. Know that offense is a tool of the enemy to bring people into captivity. (2Timothy 2:24-26)
Jesus made it clear that 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. We believe we are the only ones who have been wronged. 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:
- You must see the true condition of your heart to be freed 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 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 fruit 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 true condition of your heart. Choose to repent what’s needed, and let God be the Lord of your life.
