submit
“For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps. He committed no sin, neither was deceit found in his mouth. When he was reviled, he did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten, but continued entrusting himself to him who judges justly.”
1 Peter 2:21-23 ESV
Let go of offense. It will set you free.
As a chosen people, called by God, it is our duty to honor everyone. To love, even when it’s difficult. To bless even when undeserved (1 Pe 2:17). At times this seems impossible—when we want to be right, or seen, or heard. When someone has hurt us or betrayed our trust.
Yet, the Apostle Peter calls us Beloved, to humble ourselves before the living God and submit to Him so that we might follow in Christ’s footsteps. Christ didn’t repay evil for evil. When Christ suffered, he didn’t blame or threaten those around him. He entrusted himself to the Father who judges justly and rights all wrongs (1 Pe 2:23-24).
Ephesian 4:2-3 reminds us to be patient with one another, making allowance for each other’s faults because of our love. To make every effort to keep ourselves united in the Spirit, binding ourselves together with peace.
Overcoming a spirit of offense requires intentionality and humility. If we will humbly submit to God, His Spirit will guide us to do what is right.
It may look like letting someone be a disappointment and letting it go. It may look like assuming the best. It may be having a difficult conversation. Blessed are the meek..not weak. Blessed are the peacemakers..not peacekeepers. Conflict is apart of life and sometimes necessary for long-term peace, but we can do so in a way that honors and glorifies God. Blessed are those who pray for their enemies and rejoice when persecuted for the sake of Christ. This is who we are now. We are salt and light, living to incline others to see God’s glory (Mt 5:3-11).
“But the Lord helps me, therefore I have not been disgraced. Therefore, I have set my face like a flint and I know that I shall not be put to shame” (Is 50:7). Even when he faced opposition, Jesus continued in obedience to the Lord. He was steadfast and confident in the Lord’s deliverance. His death on the cross not only paid the price for our sins but broke the power of sin in our lives. Therefore, let us seek to emulate our Lord Jesus in all things. Put to death any strife or division in your heart, friend. Resist pointless quarrels. Resist the enemy and commit your entire way to the Lord.
blessings,
makenzi
additional reading:
Old Testament: Deuteronomy 32:35, Proverbs 10:12, 16:32, 19:11, 20:22
New Testament: John 13:34-35, 1 Peter 2:13-25, James 4:6-7, Romans 12:18-19, Ephesians 4:26
reflect:
Is offense gripping your heart? Invite the Holy Spirit to reveal any un-forgiveness in your heart. Where can you minister the love of Christ? What can you surrender to the Father today?
centering prayer:
LORD, lead me with single minded faith to do what is right in your eyes. In Jesus name, amen.
