Robin Bertram Ministries Blog

Woe unto the world because of offences! for it must needs be that offences come; but woe to that man by whom the offence cometh!
Matthew 18:7

Have you been offended? Do you hold an offense in your heart toward someone? Offense will certainly grieve the Holy Spirit. Biblically, when we have something against another, we are to go to them, leave our offerings at the altar and make things right with our brother or sister. What do you do when you seek restoration, and want to discuss an issue that needs to be resolved but the other individual refuses to speak to you about the problem? Or if they do, its all about blame and contention, and not about real reconciliation.

I remember a time in my life when I was greatly offended by a woman who I considered a close friend. I had been falsely accused and greatly misunderstood over an incident. My friend had been involved in the circumstances that surrounded the issue and had the inside track. However, instead of speaking on my behalf, with the truth, she decided to side with my accusers against me. The pain was almost unbearable. I was so hurt; I didnt know what to do. Every time I would see her, I found myself fighting against anger and bitterness.

One day I had been in prayer about this situation. God gave me a vision. I saw this woman who had offended me, worshiping the Lord. Hands raised and on her knees crying out to God. All at once the anger and bitterness I had felt for her just seemed to disappear. My heart had been cleansed. God was truly honored. We are

to give up resentment of
to claim requital for
to grant relief from payment of a debt
to forgive a debt
to cease to feel resentment against (an offender)
to forgive one's enemies

Today, if you have been offended. Go to that person. State your case. If they will not hear you, go with another who will encourage reconciliation. If that too fails, go to your pastor. Regardless of the other individual, your responsibility is to keep your heart clean from bitterness, which is a poison that will defile you. Do this:

1. Pray for them daily.

2. Bless them-I mean practice speaking well of them.

3. Let them know you love them.

4. Extend mercy, because you one day, just may need it.

Have a bitter free day!