On Giving and Taking Offense

“I am offended by that, what you said.” How often do we hear about people being offended in our world today, especially in our secular and political world, along with our religious world. And, very often following such offense is legal action, law suit or the like. It is almost as if some people are looking for some reason to take offense, even when no offense is intended.

“I did not mean to offend you, sorry.” Personally, I do not try to offend other people, most of the time. Sure, I have to admit, perhaps there are some times I try to be offensive, but more often than not, I try not giving offense. And I cannot help it when someone else takes offense even when none is given.

I think what makes people who attempt to offend more angry than anything is when someone does not take offense. I know that people have tried to offend me, but because I refuse to take offense, they get offended and even more angry. Again, while I try not to give offense, I also try not taking offense.

So, if you are offended, before going and taking the speck out of your brother’s eye, try taking the log out of you own eye. And, if you have not intended to give offense, remember that you are in good company as with Jesus, many people took offense at Him, though He never gave any.

Finally, always remember, with the Lord, there is forgiveness. And we forgive as we have been forgiven. We love as He first loved us.