Greetings in His Holy Name!
IT’S NOT PERSONAL! “Uh, oh.” That is my less mature self inside my head when I hear someone say, “It’s not personal.” Usually, when someone says this, it is extremely personal. They may be talking about your work, family, faith, politics, or something you said four months ago. Whatever they said, it hurts. You may be so emotionally invested and justified that everything inside you wants to put them in their place.
NOT OFFENDED… Here is what I have learned in Christ: It may be personal but I do not have to be offended. Our culture feverishly feeds on being offended. It is how the devil spreads suspicion, anger, and bitterness. We live in a world of offense, but we do not have to be offended. Feeling something deeply personal is normal, and many times justified, but being offended is a choice.
I’M ALRIGHT… Here are a few quick thoughts. You have the self-control of the Holy Spirit in you. Pause, pray, and reflect before you respond. Forgiven people forgive people. If Christ chose to forgive my many offenses, I too can choose to forgive. Receiving and giving forgiveness is one of the greatest hallmarks of Christianity. You can also clothe yourself in humility while either accepting legitimate criticism or agreeing to disagree. Lastly, your identity as a Christ Follower comes from your justification in Christ and not your justification to man. Here is a simple truth that the Holy Spirit has whispered in my soul: I do not have to be right to be alright.
For more on this subject, check out the message, When Offense Comes.
You are not alone!
Rick Lorimer
Lead Pastor
Christ Place Church
