Do not take offence. There will be opportunities for you to be offended by people but resist the urge to take offence because that urge is not from God but from the devil. Do not give in to him or his wiles, as much as he tries.

Be honest about your condition. Yes, acknowledge that you have been hurt or that the situation is not favourable to you, but you can take it to the Lord in prayer, or speak to a trusted person who can give you wise and good counsel.

Resist the spirit of offence verbally. Speak up and banish the spirit of offence from you. Tell yourself that you have forgiven even though it does not feel like so yet. And whenever the thought comes at you, or the temptation to be offended comes, speak up and resist it.

Make room for other people’s imperfections. Remember that we are all imperfect and we make mistakes from time to time. Pray for the offender to repent from their ways, and ask for God’s mercies for them.

Forgive by faith. Forgive, even when you don't feel like forgiving. Tell yourself that you have forgiven and keep on speaking it and thanking God. God honours our faith. After a while, the feeling of hurt will go away.

Don’t discuss it with people. After you have forgiven by faith, do not tell what the other person did to you to others. Resist the temptation to speak about it and make it a closed chapter. Remember to keep on thanking God for them.

Avoid close contact with people who have the seed of offence. This is one of the most crucial things to do in your journey of forgiveness, as these people will draw you back with their evil ways. Resist them and avoid contact with them. “Now I urge you, brethren, note those who cause divisions and offenses, contrary to the doctrine which you learned, and avoid them. For those who are such do not serve our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly, and by smooth words and flattering speech deceive the hearts of the simple” (Romans 16:17-18).

Beloved, as our opening scripture commands, think on good things, meditate on them regarding people – things that are true, noble, just, pure, lovely, of good report, and offence will flee from you.

Prayer & Confession of Faith: I will think only good things about people. I refuse to dwell on wrong things but on things that edify others. No more offence in my life. Amen!

One Year Bible Reading
Job 6