Do you ever have one of those days when you are mad at the way people behave? Something really unfair happens and you try very hard not to be offended?

Not that I am not perfect, but when I see people, especially Christians, purposely do the wrong thing, it bothers me.

Today it is bothering me! I had two situations of offense to deal with today. In both of these situations, it was not safe to confront the people who doled out the injustice. This means, I can’t confront the problem and get it resolved. I have to live with the injustices and let them go.

Do you find that difficult? I do.

My first career choice was to be a lawyer and I think this is why- I have a strong sense of wanting justice, probably from experiencing things out of my control. And every so often, someone does something hurtful that impacts my future and I have a choice-let it go or hold on to anger and unforgiveness.

My head knows that I must forgive the person even though the person isn’t asking for forgiveness and probably doesn’t consider the ramifications of his actions. During these times, I engage my will. I choose to forgive. My emotions take awhile to catch up. When this happens, I ask God to help me release the person to Him.

Then I must trust that God uses these times of unfairness to build my character, and will bring good from these offenses. I also remind myself about the times I have offended God. Yet, He always forgives me and wipes the slate clean.

So today, once more, I turn the person over to you God. I don’t want to carry around angry feelings. I am not his judge or the Holy Spirit. You are. Yes, I was hurt by his actions but you know that, and will help my heart to heal. It is the relationship with You than makes it possible to release the offense and move on. My flesh wants revenge, but my spirit knows not to go there. On days like this, I am glad I have my faith and that God is patient with me.

Letting go of offense