Overcoming Offense in Seasons of Transition

Transition is often a season of growth, change, and movement toward something greater that God has promised. Whether it’s a new job, a shift in ministry, or a personal transformation, the journey of crossing over to what God has shown us can be exhilarating. But, as we move forward, we must recognize the subtle yet dangerous temptation that often arises during these times—offense.

God has called us to surrender to His will, and as we obey, the enemy seeks to find any crack or open door through which he can derail our faith. When we are vulnerable, especially in times of transition, offense can creep in unnoticed, threatening to steal our momentum and hinder our progress. But the Word of God makes it clear: offense is not just an obstacle—it is a momentum killer.

The Temptation of Offense

When you’re in a season of transition, there’s a temptation to feel hurt, misunderstood, or betrayed. People may say things that sting, actions may be taken against us that don’t seem fair, or circumstances may not unfold as we expected. It’s easy to fall into the trap of feeling like a victim and letting offense take root in our hearts. But we must recognize offense for what it is: a weapon of the enemy. It is designed to destroy our faith, break our relationships, and stop us from advancing in the purpose God has called us to.

In Matthew 18:7, Jesus warned, “Woe to the world because of offenses! For offenses must come, but woe to that man by whom the offense comes!” The Word acknowledges that offenses will come, but it also warns us not to let them control us or stop us from walking in God’s will. Offenses are inevitable, but how we respond is a choice.

Offense as a Momentum Killer

Offense is like a weight that drags us down and keeps us from running the race God has set before us. Hebrews 12:1 says, “Let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us.” Offense can ensnare us, causing us to stumble, lose focus, and take our eyes off the prize. When we hold on to offense, it’s as if we are carrying unnecessary baggage, making it harder to move forward.

It is in these moments that forgiveness becomes our weapon of choice. Forgiveness isn’t just a nice thing to do—it is a command from God. It’s how we rise above offense and keep our momentum going. Ephesians 4:31-32 tells us, “Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice. And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.”

Jesus: Our Example of Forgiveness

Jesus is our ultimate example of how to handle offense. During His ministry, He faced betrayal, rejection, and misunderstanding at every turn. The people He loved, who should have received Him, rejected Him instead. Yet, He responded with grace. Even on the cross, as He was mocked and crucified, He said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing” (Luke 23:34). Jesus showed us that forgiveness is not just about letting go of the hurt; it’s about choosing to walk in love and wisdom, even when we’ve been wronged.

There are times in our lives when silence is the wisest response. Not every situation requires a reply, and not every offense needs to be defended. Jesus, in His wisdom, often said nothing when confronted. In Matthew 27:12-14, when He was questioned by Pilate, the Word tells us that Jesus gave no answer. Sometimes, the best thing we can do when faced with offense is to trust God’s timing and remain silent, knowing that He is our defender.

Rising Above Offense

In seasons of transition, when offense seems to knock at our door, we must choose to rise above. The temptation to take offense is real, and the enemy will use it to try to distract and discourage us. But God has given us the tools to overcome. We don’t have to be victims of our circumstances or the words of others. In fact, Jesus has already shown us the way out. In Matthew 18:21-22, He tells us to forgive, not just once, but seventy-seven times, emphasizing the importance of continual forgiveness in our hearts.

We are called to rise above offense, and the Word of God shows us how. In Romans 12:21, it says, “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” This is how we rise above—by choosing to respond with good, not evil, in the face of offense. The enemy wants to bring division and destruction, but when we walk in forgiveness and love, we rise above his attacks and become a witness of God’s power to heal and restore.

The Call to Commune with Jesus

During these times, it is crucial to stay close to Jesus, the one who understands what it’s like to be hurt by others. He knows our pain, our struggles, and our vulnerability in transition. Communing with Him allows us to be healed from the wounds caused by offense and to receive the strength we need to forgive and move forward.

In John 15:4-5, Jesus said, “Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me. I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing.” Abiding in Jesus means staying connected to Him through prayer, worship, and His Word. It is in this deep communion with Him that we find the wisdom and strength to forgive and rise above offense. Jesus understands betrayal and hurt, and He is the one who empowers us to forgive, no matter the cost.

In addition, forgiveness allows us to move in wisdom, as Proverbs 4:7 says, “Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom. And in all your getting, get understanding.” When we walk in wisdom, we are able to see the enemy’s schemes clearly and respond according to God’s will.

Victory Over Offense

In this season of transition, don’t let offense derail your progress. Rise above. Forgive, and let the peace of Christ rule in your heart. Remember, we are part of a mighty army, and God has already equipped us with everything we need to overcome the temptation of offense. Keep your eyes on Jesus, stay in communion with Him, and press on toward the prize.

God is with you. The battle is His, and you have the victory!