“Then said he unto the disciples, It is impossible but that offences will be come: but woe unto him, through whom they come!” Luke 17:1 (KJV)

Offense is one of the enemy's most subtle tools to create division, bitterness, and destruction, especially among believers, families, and colleagues. In Luke 17:1, Jesus doesn't say if offenses come, but clearly states they will. That means, in your workplace, church, marriage, community, even among friends, offense is inevitable. It's a part of the human experience. But how we respond to offense determines whether we walk in freedom or stay in bondage.

You may be going through such a season right now; maybe someone at work has wronged you, or a misunderstanding has shaken a close friendship. Perhaps your spouse said something hurtful, or a fellow church member disappointed you. It’s painful. But here's a liberating truth: you cannot control how people act, but you can choose how you respond.

Proverbs 19:11 (NIV) tells us, “A person’s wisdom yields patience; it is to one’s glory to overlook an offense.” Overlooking an offense is not weakness—it is strength wrapped in grace. It doesn’t mean pretending the hurt didn’t happen; it means choosing not to let it control your heart or dictate your actions.

Ephesians 4:2–3 encourages us to “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” Unity in our relationships is worth fighting for—but it requires forgiveness, humility, and a heart that refuses to be imprisoned by offense.

Ask the Lord to help you release the hurt. Sometimes it’s hard, especially when the offense is deep. But remember, holding on to it only gives it more power over you. Offense can lead to bitterness, and Hebrews 12:15 warns us that bitterness defiles many.

If you're dealing with offense right now, surrender it to God. He sees your pain and will bring healing and justice in His perfect time. Let the cross be your standard—Jesus forgave even those who crucified Him.

Prayer: Lord, help me let go of offense and walk in love and peace. Heal my heart and give me grace to forgive, in Jesus' name, Amen.