Today it seems like there is no way around offending someone. Recently I had to write a letter requesting donations for a non-profit organization. Since this was the first letter of its kind that I had to construct I asked a friend that had more experience to review my letter. She is very “PC” and there were many errors that she felt I had to change including my closing that said “blessings”. She stated that I shouldn’t offend the people who I’m asking to donate. I felt that was odd because who wouldn’t want to have a blessed day?
Isn’t that what holds some of us back from sharing Jesus? We are too fearful of offending others that we are willing to be disobedient to the Lord’s leading. I don’t know about you, but I’d rather take the dirty looks or snide comments over the wrath of the Lord. There are some days that if I lived in fear of offending others that I may as well just not even speak! We are not called to live in fear!
1 Peter 3:13-17 says:
“…and who is he who will harm you if you become followers of what is good? But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you are blessed. And do not be afraid of their threats, nor be troubled. But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear; having a good conscience, that when they defame you as evildoers, those who revile your good conduct in Christ may be ashamed. For it is better, if it is the will of God, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil.”
I’m not saying or encouraging you to be banging down doors or beating people with bibles, but why not share where your joy comes from? Share the blessings the Lord has placed in your life or glorify Him through the process. Giving the credit to where the true credit is due.
This past Christmas I asked my mother in-law what she wanted for Christmas. She responded with “peace, happiness, and a day off from work”. I told her I couldn’t help with the day off from work, but it was an opportunity to share with her where my peace and happiness comes from. Sharing how much the Lord loves us and wants to be in relationship with us. Whether it went in one ear and out the other is out of my hands, but keeping my mouth shut for fear of her response would have been a dis-service to her and disobedient to the leading the Lord laid on my heart.
Throughout the bible the Lord used many people that felt unworthy and fearful. There were many times that he states and had to remind them to be strong and courageous. Joshua 1:9 states:
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
He will never leave us nor forsake us. (Hebrews 13:5).
So why not be bold for the one who created us and never leaves our sides. Stepping out in faith and not cowering away in fear from who your words or actions of love may offend. Remember, those who are offended are not offering you salvation.
-Jessica P