It is impossible to establish a healthy relationship with a person who has left another relationship bitter and offended. The way we leave a relationship is the same way we will enter the next one. The unforgiveness you owe from your former relationship will hinder your future. Offence is very common and it is an epidemic; we have almost come to believe it is a way of life. It is impossible to live this life without offence. Remember, offence can come in any way. Whether you are right or wrong, you don’t have any right to hold an offence.
Expectations of a certain behaviour from our loved ones, relatives and acquaintances set us up for offence. We are often disappointed and offended when our expectations are not met. Your response to an offence determines your future.
Our Lord Jesus Christ said on the Cross: “Father, forgive them.” Those needing to be mindful of their future include both the offender and the offended. Offence is an effective instrument used by satan to trap us and make us one of his own.
In John 20: 23, the Bible says: “If you forgive the sin of anyone, they are forgiven, and if you retain the sin of anyone, they are retained.” As Christians, we must know that relationship originates from God and overflows to the people. Our relationship with friends and relatives must remain an integral part of God’s original relationship. Physical growth is a function of time, intellectual growth is a function of learning but spiritual growth is a function of obedience—obedience to God. People of God, we have been held hostage by unforgiveness and bitterness. Until we release ourselves from such bondage, healing, deliverance and blessings cannot locate us.
How do we release ourselves from this self-imprisonment? It is by letting go of offence. Say this prayer: “Lord Jesus Christ, give me love enough to overlook the mistakes of others. Amen!”