When Offended Means Defended

A teenager may think we are uncool to not allow them to attend certain parties or concerts.  They may lash out at us or gang up on us along with their friends as a result of our telling them no.  It offends them and it offends us knowing we have offended them.  This type of correction hurts us all but we have actually defended them from a situation that opens up temptations that have lasting consequences.

These days temptations are at an all time high world wide.  What’s wrong seems to be the new right and if wrong is challenged things can become out of control.  Many will give way to what is wrong to get a temporary reprieve from the mobs.  Some people will avoid going to church anymore for fear of offending the mobs.  It takes divine courage to stand for what is right in any situation.

When we do the right thing in the presence of evil doers it’s like turning the light on and catching them with their pants down.  Evil loves darkness and will do everything possible to keep good from shining through.  It’s a conviction to them and convictions are offensive.  Yes, convictions are offensive.  It sheds light on what is wrong and evil hates it.

Unfortunately too many of us do not want to stir up the mob with the truth and some will lower the standards of their morals just to keep peace.  What peace?  This type peace only gives comfort while hell licks its chops.  It is to their favor that we continue to uphold the values of the Bible and God’s word.  God never changes and His rewards and punishments remain the same.  Jesus even refers to hell as so intense that it’s better to lose an eye or hand to get into heaven than to be in hell with both.  In today’s terms, it’s better to be offended and given an opportunity to change patterns and accept Christ than to feel good for the moments of this lifetime.

It is time for God’s people to stand up, not to intend to offend but to defend people in what is right.  People will be offended when the light is turned on but if they are lead to eternal life in Jesus Christ the offense will be their biggest defense.  Jesus saves.  The mob is hungry for Christ.  Now is the time to pray for their hunger to lead them to search for Christ so they can be saved.

2 Corinthians 7:8-9  Living Bible

I am no longer sorry that I sent that letter to you, though I was very sorry for a time, realizing how painful it would be to you. But it hurt you only for a little while.  Now I am glad I sent it, not because it hurt you but because the pain turned you to God. It was a good kind of sorrow you felt, the kind of sorrow God wants his people to have, so that I need not come to you with harshness.