Some people are easily offended. Whatever you say or do, they will find a flaw and take it personally. Suddenly, everything about YOU is about THEM and how you failed or hurt them.

You may find it hard to breathe around people like this while balancing on tippy toes as you navigate a minefield of eggshells. No matter what you say or do, it’s not good enough, or it hurts or offends them. So, you pull away.

Remember, precious soul, the enemy is all about division. If he can whisper accusations and stir up trouble, he will. Satan loves offense and drama as they steal our energy, focus, and time. If he can get believers all riled up against each other, then they’re caught up in THAT battle, and he can move on and attack others who are busy serving and building God’s Kingdom. It’s a double hit for him.

If you’re someone who is easily offended by the faults of others, remember how God has forgiven your imperfections, and look to His Word for guidance:

“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.”

Colossians 3:12-14 NIV.

We all goof. We all make mistakes. Unfortunately, in this fallen world, you’re going to get hurt, and you’re going to hurt others. It’s what you do afterward that makes all the difference.

If you’re in the wrong, ask for forgiveness. If you’ve been wronged, bear with those who’ve wronged you and extend grace, that is, forgive them even if you don’t think they deserve it. Remember, God forgives you even when you don’t deserve it.

And, of course, pray. If someone has sinned against you, go directly to that person. (Matthew 18:15.) Don’t feed into the drama by giving silent treatments or gossiping.

Satan’s lies are like ticking time bombs just waiting to blow up relationships. When you confront someone and talk it over, forgiving if there’s been an offense, you diffuse that bomb.

Yes, it’s true that most hate confrontation, but sometimes it’s necessary to restore unity.

And loving unity is what our Heavenly Father desires. It’s not only fitting for the children of His Kingdom to get along but also to mirror His behavior by forgiving and loving each other.

---