Wednesday; October 18

Several years ago I read the book “Unoffendable” by Brant Hansen. I am not going to say that it was a life-changing read, but I will admit that it was eye-opening. The premise of the book is that we have a choice, we can allow other people to offend us by their words or we can choose to overcome what people say about us (and/or our principles) by making it a point to not allow ourselves to be offended. After all, being offended by others is our choice. An excerpt from the book challenges us, “Real humanity lies in self-forgetfulness. Few want to hear this but it’s true, and it can be enormously helpful in life: if you are constantly being hurt, offended or angered, you should honestly evaluate your inflamed ego.”. Ouch! The words might be rather pointed, but I think the principle rings true – one of the best ways to not let people get under our skin is by practicing humility.

Centuries before Hansen wrote his book, the Apostle Paul noted, “So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience; bearing with one another, and forgiving each other, whoever has a complaint against anyone; just as the Lord forgave you, so also should you.” (Colossians 3:12-13). When we are willing to give up the pull of retaliation and retribution – and replace it with forgiveness and tolerance – our lives will be easier and our relationships will be better.

Think About It!

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