Slip Through the Fingers of Offense and Live Free

Life is full of opportunities to be offended. Jesus Himself said that as long as we live in this world, offense will come. Someone will misunderstand you, overlook your opinion, or say something that stings. And today, with every opinion broadcast on social media, it’s easier than ever to take the bait.

You read a stranger’s comment, disagree with it, and suddenly you’re upset, calling friends and family to share your frustration. Without even realizing it, you’ve handed over your peace to someone who may not even know you exist.

The Bible tells us that the word offense comes from a Greek term meaning “bait” — the kind used to lure an animal into a trap. That’s exactly what offense does. It pulls you into a cycle of bitterness and robs you of joy. The longer you hold onto it, the harder it is to let go — just like a stain on a carpet that’s easier to clean when you act quickly.

Proverbs 19:11 says, “Good sense makes one slow to anger, and it is to one’s glory to overlook an offense.” Overlooking an offense isn’t weakness — it’s wisdom. It’s choosing freedom over bitterness.

Jesus faced constant attempts to offend Him. People insulted Him, tried to trap Him, and stirred up trouble. But He entrusted Himself to the One who judges justly. He didn’t waste time defending Himself or chasing down every false accusation. He simply moved on.

The Apostle Paul faced the same challenge. In 2 Timothy, he said, “Alexander the coppersmith did me great harm, but the Lord will repay him.” Paul understood that carrying offense would slow him down from fulfilling God’s calling. He handed the matter over to God and kept moving forward.

We must do the same. When offense comes — and it will — decide quickly: Will you swallow it and let it poison your heart, or will you spit it out before it takes root?

Jesus slipped through the fingers of those who tried to seize Him and stayed on His God-given path. You can do the same. If offense can’t upset you, it can’t control you. And if it can’t control you, you’re free to live in joy, peace, and victory.

So today, choose to let go. Give it to God. Slip past the trap of offense, and walk in the freedom He’s called you to.