I’ve been realizing more and more that being offended is a choice.  And really, when I concentrate so much on a person who offends me, I’m not able to concentrate on God or where He’s leading me.  I’m spending too much time and energy thinking about how I’ve been offended.  I’m thankful that God doesn’t do that with me.  I’ve given Him plenty to be offended about.  I heard Michael W. Smith speaking on a video once and he said something like, “I’ve made it my goal to never be offended by another person again.”  That really made me think!  How often do I get bent out of shape by another’s actions or attitudes when my focus really just needs to be on Jesus and running this race He’s called me to, and to extending the grace that’s been given to me.

– Susie Stewart

 

Therefore, I accept weakness, mistreatment, hardship, persecution, and difficulties suffered for Christ. It’s clear that when I’m weak, I’m strong.

– 2 Corinthians 12:10 (GW)

 

In return for my love they accuse me, but I give myself to prayer.

– Psalm 109:4 (ESV)

 

So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.

– John 8:36 (ESV)

 

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us.

– Hebrews 12:1 (NLT)

 

Photo taken by Arik Stewart