Woe to the world because of offenses! For offenses must come, but woe to that man by whom the offense comes!
Jesus Christ - Matthew 18:7
Sometimes we can’t help offending others (For offenses must come…), but we also have to be aware of unnecessary offenses that we can put up between ourselves and others. These offenses can inhibit our relationship with God. They can bring bitterness. Hebrews says that this is so important that we should even balance this against our holiness. Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord: looking carefully lest anyone fall short of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up cause trouble, and by this many become defiled; lest there be any fornicator or profane person like Esau, who for one morsel of food sold his birthright. Hebrews 12:14-16 Like Esau, we can become so bitter about what we have already lost, we can just give up and sell out for nothing. Even in our call for/to holiness we must attempt to be at peace with everyone. If we don’t give grace we will plant a root of bitterness and many will be defiled when that plant bears fruit.
When we are carelessly offensive our offenses and the bitterness they cause are going to spring up and defile many. Those around us who we love will be affected negatively. We will eventually be dismayed if we do not control our offensive lives. Jesus is telling us not to be offensive. The other person will be responsible for their reaction to our offense but we will be responsible for initiating the issue.
So unless we really can’t help it, let’s live in peace with all people. This will prevent woes in our own lives! Forgive those who have sinned against you (especially the brothers/sisters) and put up with their annoying personality quirks that drive you nuts. Be ready to relent in conflict and be ready to love the family by forgiving and forbearing.
Lord, help me hold onto my birthright in you. Don’t let me sell out cheap.
No Woes,
Pastor Jason
When we are carelessly offensive our offenses and the bitterness they cause are going to spring up and defile many. Those around us who we love will be affected negatively. We will eventually be dismayed if we do not control our offensive lives. Jesus is telling us not to be offensive. The other person will be responsible for their reaction to our offense but we will be responsible for initiating the issue.
So unless we really can’t help it, let’s live in peace with all people. This will prevent woes in our own lives! Forgive those who have sinned against you (especially the brothers/sisters) and put up with their annoying personality quirks that drive you nuts. Be ready to relent in conflict and be ready to love the family by forgiving and forbearing.
Lord, help me hold onto my birthright in you. Don’t let me sell out cheap.
No Woes,
Pastor Jason
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