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

Jesus said it. Offenses will come. He also said that in the world we would have tribulation, or in the Greek, pressures, trouble, anguish, or persecution. Therefore, as offenses come, so do does tribulation. Just make sure you’re not causing offenses or trouble for others.

Always remember that when offenses come, you don’t have to take it. You have a choice. Just say, “Offense, I’m not participating in you.” When someone tries to hurt you, don’t receive the hurt. Don’t allow it in your thoughts, in your emotions, in your words, and in your actions. Refuse it like you would refuse a package you didn’t order.

Don’t take offenses when they come. Let them go right on past you, not caring at all. Consider the example of Jesus. No matter what the devil or people tried to do to Jesus, He never got offended. How did He do this? He was more focused on pleasing the Father, following only what He heard and saw from God. He chose to act on the Word, not on His emotions. He refused to be hurt, even dying on the cross for those who mocked and tormented Him. Yes, He felt pain in what He suffered: physical and emotion- mental pain, but He refused to give it place. He did not hold onto unforgiveness that could come from being wronged or being mistreated. He did not allow the pain to take root and produce offense. Instead, he chose to do God’s will to the very end. As we follow His example, we too can overcome offense in our lives.

When offense or hurt comes, you don’t have to take it. Make the choice not to be ruled by your emotions, but be prepared by deciding beforehand not to be offended. Then, when offense comes, you can overcome evil with good.