PAY ATTENTION TO IT

01/07/2024

"Good sense makes one slow to anger, and it is his glory to overlook an offense" (Proverbs 19:11).

Isaiah the prophet said, "Behold, the LORD'S hand is not so short That it cannot save; Nor is His ear so dull That it cannot hear. But your iniquities have made a separation between you and your God, and your sins have hidden His face from you so that He does not hear." In essence, the issue is not with God. The Scriptures affirm, "God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble," signifying that even before we utter a prayer, His presence is already with us, patiently waiting for our acknowledgment of His role in our lives.

It's important to recognize that merely having God with us doesn't automatically bring about change. The transformative factor is our response to what God instructs. Consider Lazarus, who was buried. The Bible says that Jesus was at his gravesite, yet nothing happened until Jesus gave the Word that brought Lazarus out of the grave. Often, even before we voice our concerns, God has already spoken over our circumstances. The key to experiencing the desired miracle lies in how we respond to God's instructions, and a significant hindrance to hearing and acting on the anointing of the Holy Spirit is offense.

Regarding offense, it is crucial to understand that it is not determined by external circumstances or individuals; rather, it is closely tied to one's heart posture. Consider the example of Jesus visiting the house of Mary and Martha, as recorded in Luke 10. Jesus began teaching, and Martha, known for her hospitality, busied herself preparing a meal for the guest. Meanwhile, Mary chose to sit and listen to what Jesus had to say.

At first glance, one might assume that Mary should have followed her sister's example—after all, when hosting guests, entertaining them is expected, right? Martha felt this way, and her initial sense of obligation evolved into offense. Unable to bear it any longer, she interrupted Jesus in front of everyone, expressing her frustration: "Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her to help me!" In a way, she was attributing part of the blame to Jesus.

Jesus responded with profound insight, saying, "Martha, Martha," and continued, "You are worried and upset about many things. But only one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, and it will not be taken away from her." Essentially, Jesus pointed out that the source of Martha's offense had nothing to do with Mary; rather, her heart posture was fixated on herself rather than God. I dare say by her statement that she was also upset at Jesus. 

Many of God's people, like Martha, may find themselves unknowingly immersed in offense. Martha, in her situation, believed her reasons for questioning Jesus were justified and ethical. However, Jesus revealed to her that the issue wasn't about someone, like Mary, failing to assist her; it was that she allowed herself to be offended by something that shouldn't have provoked such a reaction. We must understand that being offended is more than just an emotion; it's a spiritual influence that can jeopardize destinies if left unchecked.

Saints, dwelling repeatedly on an issue isn't worth its toll. It's essential to cast out the spirit of offense and break its influence over your mind in the name of Jesus. Your destiny this year is far greater than the words spoken or how you were treated. In the grand scheme of things, these won't matter. If you find it challenging to overcome negative emotions, it could indicate the presence of the spirit of offense. Remember, people will say and act in ways you don't always approve of, and you have the right to be offended; however, I urge you not to exercise that right. Too much is at stake this year.

Pay attention.

God bless you.

Faith Filled Confession

I choose not to be offended by the words and actions of others. I extend forgiveness for any wrongs done to me yesterday, today, and in the future, in the name of the Lord Jesus. I am filled with love, kindness, and grace. Therefore, I declare I walk in love today, in Jesus' name. Amen!

Day 6 of 21 Days of Prayer and Fasting

Prayer for Consistent Productivity and Accomplishments of Divine Assignments

▪ Pray that none of our brethren will lose steam in their faith walk but will remain fervent in spirit as they serve the Lord.

▪ Pray that they will be doers of the Word and that the divine assignments entrusted to them this year will be accomplished.

Scriptural References

"He brought them forth also with silver and gold: and there was not one feeble person among their tribes" (Psalm 105:37).

"Never be lazy in showing such devotion. Be on fire with the Spirit. Serve the Lord" (Romans 12:11).

One-Year Bible Reading Plan: Genesis 18-19; Matthew 6