In our journey of faith, one of the most challenging yet rewarding paths we can take is learning to live void of offences. Holding onto offences is a heavy burden that can hinder our spiritual growth and rob us of the joy and peace that Christ offers. The Bible provides us with profound wisdom on how to navigate this path and find true freedom.
The Call to Forgiveness
Jesus set a powerful example of forgiveness, even in the face of unimaginable suffering. On the cross, He prayed, “Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do” (Luke 23:34, KJV). This prayer encapsulates the essence of living without offence—releasing others from their wrongs, not because they deserve it, but because forgiveness is the essence of Christ’s love.
In Matthew 18:21-22 (KJV), Peter asks Jesus, “Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times?” Jesus replies, “I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven.” This response highlights that forgiveness is not a one-time act but a continual practice.
Guarding Our Hearts
Proverbs 4:23 (KJV) advises, “Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.” Our hearts are the wellspring of life, and allowing offences to take root can corrupt this source. By guarding our hearts, we can prevent the bitterness that offences bring from taking hold.
Paul echoes this in Ephesians 4:31-32 (KJV): “Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice: And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” Here, Paul not only instructs us to remove negative emotions but also encourages us to actively cultivate kindness and compassion.
The Freedom in Letting Go
When we hold onto offences, we imprison ourselves in a cycle of resentment and pain. Jesus invites us to find freedom by letting go. In Matthew 6:14-15 (KJV), He teaches, “For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.”
Forgiveness is not about condoning wrong actions; it’s about freeing our hearts from the chains of bitterness. It’s about trusting God to be the ultimate judge and healer.
Living in Peace
Romans 12:18 (KJV) encourages us, “If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.” This verse acknowledges that while we cannot control others’ actions, we can control our responses. Pursuing peace means choosing to release offences and seek reconciliation where possible.
Colossians 3:13 (KJV) further instructs, “Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.” This reminds us that our ability to forgive comes from the forgiveness we have already received through Christ.
Practical Steps to Live Void of Offences
1. Prayer: Begin by asking God to reveal any hidden offences in your heart and to give you the strength to forgive. Prayer aligns our hearts with God’s will and opens us to His healing.
2. Reflect on God’s Forgiveness: Regularly meditate on scriptures about God’s forgiveness. Understanding the depth of Christ’s sacrifice can soften our hearts toward others.
3. Seek Reconciliation: Where possible, address offences directly and seek to reconcile with those who have hurt you. Approach these conversations with humility and a genuine desire for peace.
4. Practice Gratitude: Gratitude shifts our focus from what has been done to us to what God has done for us. It’s a powerful antidote to resentment.
5. Seek Pastoral Counsel: Do not harbour negative feelings or get trapped in an offence. Offences will come because it is a major tool of the enemy, and he knows how to use it effectively against those who take the bait. Get counselling from your Pastor if it has become a stronghold to recieve deliverance ministration.
Conclusion
Living void of offences is not an easy journey, but it is a path that leads to true freedom and deeper intimacy with God. As we release our grievances and choose forgiveness, we reflect the heart of Christ and open ourselves to His peace and joy. Let us strive to guard our hearts, forgive as we have been forgiven, and live in the abundant life that Jesus promises.
“Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice: And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you” (Ephesians 4:31-32, KJV).
May this be the guiding principle of our lives as we seek to live void of offences, shining the light of Christ in a world in need of His grace.
The Message Bearer, Cornelius Bella
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