A Rock of Offense

Paul is quoted as saying, "We give no OFFENSE in anything [so] that our ministry may not be blamed."  OFFENSE means:  To cause hurt feelings, anger, displeasure, or resentment. 

I can remember my one son often saying, "I'm not hurting anybody!"  But when he would hurt himself (by doing something that he knew was wrong)--it hurt the rest of the family, too.  We're all "connected" together, as a family and as the Body of Christ.  When our country goes to war, and  American soldiers gets killed or injured, we all feel the effects.

It is easy to become OFFENDED (get angry or get our feelings hurt).  And it's easy to hurt others--with sarcasim, gossip, harsh words, etc.  But we, as Christians, must strive not to OFFEND others.  We are Christ's ambassadors; therefore, we represent Him and must uphold His reputation.

Just recently a well-known defensive football coach, of a prominent college, was charged with molesting young boys (for 15 years).  This has offended, disappointed, and damaged the reputation of this institution to its core.  What a shame!

I Peter 2:8 says, "...a stone of stumbling and a A ROCK of OFFENSE.  They stumble, being disobedient to the Word...".  Let us strive not to offend, but let us strive to defend the faith--for we are his "CHOSEN people" [vs. 9].

May our prayer forever be--"Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord.  Amen."  [Psalm 19:14]