Devotions: The Blessings of Not Being Offended

And blessed is he who does not take offense at Me.

Matthew 11:6 New American Standard Bible (NASB)

Jesus spoke these words to the disciples of John the Baptist. John had been imprisoned by Herod, and having heard reports about Jesus sent his followers to find out if Jesus was really the Messiah. Apparently he had some doubts, maybe because he was left in prison, or maybe he thought Jesus’ ministry would look different than it did. Regardless, he “stumbled over” Jesus. Jesus’ response was to recount the miracles happening, which only God could do, and ended with these words. Many people had been offended by Jesus. Many still are. The Gospel of Jesus confronts people about their sin, points out where they are wrong and need to change, and tears down their preconceived ideas of religion and the world. It takes a humble heart to not be offended by that. If we are offended that means we do not respond rightly to conviction, that we choose our way or ideas over God’s, that we refuse to believe what He says and Who He is. It is hard to have a good relationship with God and a growing faith if that is the case. But we are blessed if we are not offended. Conviction is hard, changing our habits and ideas doesn’t come easy. But in order to have the satisfaction that only God can give we must not only believe in Him but also believe Him. We must be willing to change what He says needs to be changed. We must be willing to accept His word as absolute truth and create our view of the world around that. We must be willing to do what He says even if it doesn’t make sense. We must not be offended by Him. Humble your heart before God, believe and obey Him, and be blessed!