Devotionals

Reject Offense

by Michael Edwards 
11/12/25
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In a world filled with misunderstandings and harsh words, it's easy to take offense. Yet the Bible repeatedly warns against allowing offense to take root in our hearts, portraying it as a dangerous trap that ensnares us and damages relationships. Jesus Himself cautioned in Luke 17:1, "Things that cause people to stumble are bound to come, but woe to anyone through whom they come." Here, "stumble" translates to the Greek word skandalon, meaning a snare or trap. Offenses are inevitable, but harboring them leads to spiritual stumbling.

The Scriptures emphasize wisdom in overlooking offenses. Proverbs 19:11 states, "A person’s wisdom yields patience; it is to one’s glory to overlook an offense." Similarly, Proverbs 12:16 advises, "Fools show their annoyance at once, but the prudent overlook an insult." And Proverbs 17:9 warns, "Whoever would foster love covers over an offense, but whoever repeats the matter separates close friends." Dwelling on hurts only breeds division, as seen in Proverbs 18:19: "A brother wronged is more unyielding than a fortified city; disputes are like the barred gates of a citadel."

Ecclesiastes 7:21-22 offers practical advice: "Do not pay attention to every word people say, or you may hear your servant cursing you—for you know in your heart that many times you yourself have cursed others." This reminds us of our own flaws, urging humility. James 1:19 echoes this: "My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry."

Offense acts as a trap by fostering bitterness. Ephesians 4:31-32 commands, "Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." Colossians 3:13 reinforces: "Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you." Love, as described in 1 Corinthians 13:4-5, "is patient, love is kind... it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs." 1 Peter 4:8 adds, "Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins."

Jesus models handling potential offense in Matthew 11:6: "Blessed is anyone who does not stumble on account of me." And in Matthew 18:15, He instructs resolution: "If your brother or sister sins, go and point out their fault, just between the two of you." Romans 14:13 warns, "Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in the way of a brother or sister."

Today, choose forgiveness over offense. Let go of the snare, and walk in freedom and peace.

Read this too: Escaping Offense, A Trap of the Enemy

More New Covenant Bible studies HERE. 

Jesus shed His blood to bring us the New Covenant of grace and truth - Luke 22:20.