All of us experience offences in our lives. How we handle it determines how we go on with God and grow or whether we become spiritual dwarfs and never reach our full potential. When we allow the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22,23) to develop in our lives we can turn offences into opportunities. We need to keep our faith alive and continue blessing the people who offend us. Jesus had a free will but He determined not to take offence even though He had many opportunities. He willingly laid down His life to redeem us.

Romans 5: 17-19 "For if by one man's offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.) Therefore, as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnations; even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life. For as by one man's obedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous."

It is incredible the impact of one man's action. Adam disobeyed God and sinned bringing death, judgement and condemnation upon the whole human race. Christ's obedience brought life, justification and reconciliation to all who receive it. We need to give patience and long suffering another chance and give people the benefit of the doubt. Our fallen nature would be to make others suffer and when somebody offends to pay them back. The worldly way is to let no one away with anything and to make sure when anyone tramps on our toes that they are dealt with severely. God's way is to show love, patience and mercy and to give another opportunity.

I have had the opportunity to deal with a situation that could have had serious effects in business relationships. If I had dealt with it after the normal business procedures there would have been serious consequences. I had to deal with it based on Biblical principles with mercy, long suffering and forgiveness and the relationship was saved. Some Christians are so narrow minded they could see through a key hole with both eyes at the same time. We need to have a broad vision, a big heart and a long suffering spirit of patience if we are going to continue to be good servants of God and grow in Him.

Dr. Cecil Stewart O.B.E